Established nearly 40 years ago, the School of Dance has become a treasured institution in the Tucson community. As we approach our 2023/2024 season, we invite you to join us in celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Stevie Eller Dance Theatre, an iconic venue that serves as the heartbeat of the School of Dance at the University of Arizona.
Director Duane Cyrus has crafted a program that not only honors timeless classics from legends like Martha Graham and George Balanchine but also brings fresh, contemporary voices to the forefront. This season will feature new faculty hires, guest artists from a variety of backgrounds, and our very own alumna Kayla Farrish. Expect familiar favorites like the “Student Spotlight” and the “Arizona Jazz Dance Showcase,” alongside new, engaging formats like “Dance Visions”—a moderated forum that brings together special guest speakers for live demonstrations and interactive discussions.
Collaboration is a cornerstone of the School of Dance’s ethos and a feature that ties together our eclectic programming this season. We are particularly excited about ‘In Concert – The Director’s Cut,’ a special concert weekend in February that fosters this collaborative spirit, featuring various guest performers in a display of artistic cooperation. We believe in the creative synergy between students, faculty, staff, guest artists, and community partners.
Dance Visions
Sept. 6, 7p
Join the director of the School of Dance at this FREE event for an up-close look at all things Dance. Duane Cyrus will moderate a curated panel and discussion on a range of topics that will provide the audience with an opportunity to learn more about the art of Dance and the people who live and love it!
Jazz in AZ
Oct. 3-6
A lively celebration of jazz dance that showcases the talents of our students and faculty, set to the smooth and infectious rhythms of jazz music. This show series leads into the 29th season of the Arizona Jazz Dance Showcase where students from around the country are welcomed to the School of Dance to audition for the program and external unique scholarship opportunities!
Fall for Dance
Nov. 8-12, 15-19
Our fall mainstage production and we want you to “fall for dance” all over again! This concert is inspired by the concept of “Legacy” and features the incredibly talented UA Dance Ensemble as they perform in a diverse range of styles highlighting the excellent training at the University of Arizona. Works by faculty members and guests, featuring “Diversion of Angels” by modern dance legend Martha Graham and “Serenade” by ballet’s acclaimed George Balanchine. We celebrate the 20th anniversary the Stevie Eller Dance Theatre and its design inspired by “Serenade” with this performance.
FLOW | Student Spotlight
Nov. 29 – Dec. 2
In “Flow | Student Spotlight” our students “dance their learning” in an inspiring evening of student works. More than performers, our dancers are talented choreographers. This show highlights their learning and development of the important skills necessary to present high quality performances.
In-Concert | The Directors Cut
Feb. 16-18
A specially curated concert with select works to inspire you as spring approaches. Bring a Valentine date with you and share in the wonder of live performance. This eclectic program will feature a benefit performance and collaborations that explore the boundaries of dance performance. Special guests will be announced. Don’t miss it!
Dance Springs Eternal
April 11-14, 18-21
Just in time for a beautiful spring! Our mainstage production for the spring will feature works by faculty and guests and delight the audience as we move with the joy and hope inspired by the art of dance! We continue our celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the Stevie Eller Dance Theatre with innovative works from some of today’s most sought-after choreographers.
IMAGINE | Student Spotlight
April 25-28
Here’s another opportunity to enjoy the range of talent our students bring to the stage. Come out and support the artistic voices of tomorrow’s bright stars. Students are preparing for exciting futures as performers and choreographers. Here’s where you can see them at the start of great careers!