The fall program for Luna Negra, one of this city’s finest (and, in my opinion, most under-seen) companies, turns a lens on Brazilian choreographer Fernando Melo. Luna Negra delighted the Harris in 2010 with Melo’s “Bate” (Portuguese for “heartbeat”)—an intoxicating brew for five men and two women that is equal parts wit and charm, served with a dash of sweetness and spiked with surprises throughout. “Bate” is inspired by Brazilian soap operas and Melo frames his dancers like a photographer, using curtains to draw focus, obscure, and create opportunities for play. Happily, the piece returns this Saturday, along with a new work by Melo in the same vein, in which everyday objects are used by dancers to surprising ends. The program also includes a premiere by Luna Negra’s artistic director Gustavo Ramirez Sansano, whose passionate, energetic vision has been a welcome addition to Chicago’s dance scene. (Sharon Hoyer)
At the Harris Theater, 205 East Randolph, (312)334-7777. Saturday, October 13 at 8pm. $25-$65.
One Recommendation: Spectrum Dance Theater's SHOT Donald Byrd’s urgent piece deserves a spot on the lists of must-read/must-watch resources about racism, white supremacy and police violence in America.
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