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Juilliard Dance winter performances

The Juilliard Dance division had its winter culminating last night. All I can say is: I hope there are enough companies to absorb all of these beautiful dancers. Alas, the sameness of the 4 premiere choreographies did not serve the students as well as it might have--writhing, undulating, crazy lifting--but despite that, these talented kids are our hope for a future filled with dynamism. A few things stood out: The freshman class is noticeably more diverse than the other classes. Two choreographers were artists of color. The Misty Copeland effect is present: athletic bodies are now welcome in dance. There is gender diversity and fluidity in all classes, and the 2020 grads sported a lot of facial hair and man buns! The young Juilliard musicians though hidden are equally spectacular. I cannot recommend more highly trying to catch these performances through Sunday. The Nutcracker may be playing next door at five times the price but you will have just as much joy at Juilliard.