Mercyhurst University Dance Department to present 20th edition of Raw Edges

Mark Santillano

Dancers: Elizabeth Hite and Sarah Taylor

Friday, Apr. 20

For two decades, Raw Edges has provided audiences with cutting-edge choreography creations created, coordinated and performed by upper-level dance majors, and this year will be no different.

Raw Edges XX will feature nine student choreographers: Marleigh Bristol, Sara Clarke, Audrey Davison, Ragan Faulkner, Kathryn Galimi, Lacey Gigliotti, Elizabeth Hite, Kerry Schroeder and Makayla Sprague. Dance faculty members Tauna Hunter, C. Noelle Partusch, and Solveig Santillano will oversee the entire process.

This year's topics and genres span a wide range, with musical selections including country western, classical, contemporary and techno beats. Students drew inspiration from paintings, poetry and the human condition.

Audience members will also have the opportunity to hear from the artists during "Talk Back" sessions offered prior to the start of select shows and during intermission. Each choreographer will discuss his or her process for creating, realizing and articulating a unique vision.

A special gala Friday at 5:30 p.m. will take place in the Cummings Art Gallery and precede the opening performance at 7 p.m. Tickets are available for $50 at the door or through the dance department (814-824-2256) and include admission to both the gala and performance. The gala evening sponsored by Mary Ellen and Chris Sorce will benefit SafeNet and the Jenni-Lyn Memorial Scholarship Fund, which supports graduating dance majors with audition expenses.

Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m. // Mary D'Angelo Performing Arts Center, 501 E 38th St. // Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and students, and $5 for youths 12 and under and Mercyhurst students // for tickets and more information call the box office at 814-824-3000 or go to miac.mercyhurst.edu