Beckles Dancing Company

REVIEWS

REACTIONS

“From literal gesture to archetypal pose, the theme of breaking free from attachments was explored in three of the works.”

“The performers took turns being invisible to one another. If Ms. Bevans’ solo was grieving, Tina Mullone was strong and sure, with accurate gestures and planted steps that took over the space.”

“Clean technique and energy from the performers elevated Wood, the program’s final piece, from disconnected poses into shapes and textures.”

§ Dana Gavin Frank, DALLAS MORNING NEWS, April 2003

“Artistic director Loris Anthony Beckles, who choreographed Thin Jets of Fire and two sections of Sweet Suite, favors straight lines, high kicks and suspended arabesques. … the steps have clarity and intensity …

In Sweet Suite, Janet Jackson sings "when I lift my eyes ..." while four women and a man stand at one end of the stage. They thrust arms out and drop their heads with emotional fervor. Nothing could be simpler, but it works.”

§ Margaret Putnam, DALLAS MORNING NEWS, April 2001

“The company … presented a wonderfully diverse evening of entertainment. Mr. Beckles’ choreography was inspiring, lyrical and well received by the highly appreciative audience”

§ Yvonne Lovell, STAGE DOOR DANCE, October 1999.

“ … the restraint sometimes rose to eloquence, particularly in Some Sundiata, Crazy From The Get Go.”

In the opening duet, Jennifer Warren and Debra Montalvo-Swaim, dressed in handsome African-inspired costume, slowly make their way across the floor curving their arms and lunging. They’re so intent they look like participants in a ritual, each twist of torso draws the onlooker into the dance.”

§ Margaret Putnam, DALLAS MORNING NEWS, January 1999

“That choreography was right on time!”
§ audience member, after seeing “As The Fairy’s Magic Lives”, October 1998
“daring … gorgeous”

§ Margaret Putnam, DALLAS MORNING NEWS, 1997

“I could see myself [my story] on the stage”
§ audience member, after seeing “Gadinga Vortices”, November 1996