COLUMBUS, Ohio — New Vision Dance Company returns next weekend with a brand-new show of original pieces choreographed by the dancers themselves.
"During the year, we perform at some of the most beautiful venues all across central Ohio," said Melissa Gould, artistic director of New Vision Dance Company. "What's really unique about 'Up Close and Personal Vol. 7' is that is provides us the opportunity to be literally up close to the audience and express choreography that comes from our background, which is the personal aspect."
This is thanks to the production's more intimate setting at the black box theater in MadLab in downtown Columbus.
"It's a wonderful opportunity to really be immersed in the environment with the dancers," said Gould.
Most of the show's solos, duets and group pieces are choreographed by the company's dancers.
"It's super exciting as a company member to be asked to choreograph special pieces for our friends and everybody we're dancing with," said Emie Hess who choreographed a piece set to the 90s classic "Up Where We Belong."
"I wanted it to be super uplifting for the audience," explained Hess of her song choice.
She also explained that she will also be able to perform the piece at the company's 80s-themed showcase in the fall.
Fellow dancer and choreographer Clara Love created a piece entitled "Slackjaw."
"It's about the mundane-ness of life, but also finding the beauty within that," said Love. "It's just such a great way to express myself."
Gould said that the "Up Close" series of performance is a favorite among the company's dancers due to centralized location in downtown Columbus and the personal, expressive nature of the pieces.
"Since the pandemic when we had, you know, two years of no shows, local artists including dance companies are still struggling to thrive," said Gould.
She suggests that attending events like "Up Close and Personal Vol. 7" is a great way to show support for arts in the central Ohio community. And, to also show support, Gould is encouraging everyone to use the hashtag "#supportlocaldance."
"As Columbus is growing," Gould continued, "so many new companies and new people are moving here and [dance] is just one aspect of that local culture...and there are so many dance groups out there that need your support."
New Vision Dance Company's "Up Close and Personal Volume Seven" runs for four shows March 2-3 at MadLab in downtown Columbus. For links to showtimes and ticket information, visit https://www.newvisiondanceco.org/