~The mainstage production showcases student and faculty work

The excitement is building as Southeast Missouri State University students prepare to stage "Spring into Dance," which will feature original dance pieces in a variety of styles.

The celebration of dance will take center stage at 7:30 p.m. April 14 through 16 and at 2 p.m. April 17 in the Donald C. Bedell Performance Hall at Southeast's River Campus.

"It is important for us to realize that dance is the embodiment of what is taking place in our community," Hilary Peterson, coordinator of dance and assistant professor at Southeast, said. "The choreographers within the show, both student and faculty, are expressing what is happening to them. Student work represents what students are dealing with and faculty work highlights what they are interested in, so it all comes together as a representation of the Southeast community."

This year's concert will feature choreography by guest artist Harrison McEldowney of DanceWorks Chicago in a piece called "Dance Sport" that connects sports and dance in a light-hearted, exciting way. Spectators can experience the thrill and vibrancy of this piece as the dancers will be characterizing the announcer's words, similar to what is done during a sporting event.

"If you like sports, this is going to be the dance for you," Peterson said. "The references made to sports during this piece are entertaining and make it come to life. Dancers are wearing jerseys, penalty flags are thrown, referees are involved and it all just makes this piece brilliant."

Other styles of dance that will be presented during the concert include jazz, modern classical and contemporary ballet.

"Preparation for the concert began last fall, and as the date gets closer, everyone is working extremely hard to ensure that we put on a great show," Peterson said. "From practicing up to four times a week on just one piece, to costume fittings and working on the lights, it truly takes a lot to put on this concert, but we enjoy it all."

Senior Riley James said she is looking forward to the concert as a culmination of her time spent at Southeast and looks forward to the piece she will perform in with her fellow senior classmates for the last time.

"It's scary to think that this is my last dance concert at SEMO," James said. "The thing I am looking forward to the most is dancing with my fellow senior class all together one last time. It's kind of like the conclusion of everything we have been through together, the hard times, the victories, pushing each other and being able to see each person grow. They are my people."

James believes people in attendance can look forward to energetic performances from the beginning.

"We are presenting many different styles, stories and moods," James said. "There is also a range from large group pieces to duets, and it's going to be a very strong concert that will keep the audience on the edge of their seats and entertained. As our department continues to grow, the bar is set higher for each concert."

General admission tickets are $18 and student tickets are $3 with a valid Southeast ID. Tickets can be purchased at the River Campus Box Office, online at RiverCampusEvents.com or by calling (573) 651-2265.