Larkin dance show takes an imaginative journey

Posted February 20, 2018 10:00 pm

Submitted by Larkin High School VPAA Dance Program

Sydnie Babicz rehearses for Larkin High School's Visual and Performing Arts Academy's production of "How Would It Feel?" The show is the dance academy's annual "Bring a Book to Life" production. John Starks/jstarks@dailyherald.com

The Visual and Performing Arts Academy dance program at Larkin High School will present its annual "Bring a Book to Life" performance this week.

Public performances are 7 p.m. Friday and 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 23-24, at the school, 1475 Larkin Ave., Elgin. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors.

This year's book is "How Would It Feel?" by Mary Beth Goddard. This book takes families on a fantastic journey, inviting them to imagine a playful interaction within the natural world.

"How would it feel to ride on a breeze, aloft in a cloud ship … and taller than trees?" Yet the final stanza of the book provides reassuring closure, returning children to the safety of home. Local illustrator Anna Mycek-Wodecki brought the words to life through her artistry.

This dance adaptation aims to inspire the imaginations of all ages.

The VPAA dance program is under the direction of Margaret Palmer and Kelli Myhre-Bahwell.

Five professional guest choreographers were hired to work with the Academy dancers:

• Hanna Brictson, Larkin graduate and dancer with Visceral Dance Company

• Natalie Tursi, independent dancer/teacher/choreographer

• Tyler Nowotnick, Nomi Dance Company

• Danielle Wilson, Chicago Dance Crash!

• Jason Myhre, professor at Loyola Maryount University, Los Angeles, and director of Jazz with Jason

For details or to reserve tickets, contact Margaret Palmer, margaretpalmer@u-46.org. Tickets can also be purchased at the door.

Larkin High School's production of "How Would It Feel?" features 31 students. John Starks/jstarks@dailyherald.com

Zoe Palmer, center, is one of 31 students who will perform in "How Would It Feel?" at Larkin High School in Elgin. John Starks/jstarks@dailyherald.com

Sydnie Babicz's shadow is projected on the backdrop of the Larkin High School auditorium in Elgin. She dances in the lead of "How Would It Feel?," the VPAA's annual "Bring a Book to Life" production. John Starks/jstarks@dailyherald.com

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