Five Reasons to See On the Verge

Every spring, the Santa Barbara Dance Alliance sponsors On
the Verge, a chance for up-and-coming pre-professional dancers
and choreographers to participate in the process of creating dance.
With the help of a mentor, students are involved in every aspect,
from working with performers, running behind-the-scenes technical
needs, and even selling tickets and buying advertisements. Although
the performance is only one night — Saturday, May 27, 8 p.m., at
the Marjorie Luke Theatre — choreographers have been laboring since
February. Tickets range from $50 for patron seats to $10 for
students. Call 966-6950 or visit sbdancealliance.org.

1. When one of tomorrow’s dancers or
choreographers ends up in the professional State Street Ballet,
grooving on a music video, or partnering on Dancing with the Stars,
audience members can say, “I saw them when …”

2. The evening is a community event: 200
tickets are being given away to nonprofit organizations.

3. Dancers are participating in outreach
programs to bring dance off the stage and into the classroom,
providing opportunities to demystify the art.

4. More than 20 young people have been mentored
by exemplary dancers, choreographers, and teachers in our community
and have rehearsed for months at the Carrillo Recreation
Center.

5. The art deco interior of the Marjorie Luke
Theatre is a glorious setting for an evening of dance.

— Felicia M. Tomasko