Choreofest continues proud Unitec dance tradition

24 August 2010
For Immediate Release                                                                                 

Choreofest continues proud Unitec dance tradition

Unitec's year one dance students will kick off the Te Mahuru Choreofest 2010 contemporary dance performance season on Wednesday, 25 August with TAHI, a four-night season running until this Saturday.

The popular annual three-show event, which heralds in the coming of spring, is a showcase of Unitec's dance school. Dance curriculum leader, Charene Griggs, says this year's season is shaping up to be a thrilling spectacle. "Choreofest speaks to the very heart of this Department (Performing and Screen Arts), and especially to this programme's commitment to the development of technical excellence and innovative artistry," she says.

Choreofest is part of a special year for Unitec as it prepares to celebrate 21 years of contemporary dance at its end of year Dance Showcase in November.

"Unitec has a proud history and reputation within New Zealand's dance community and over the years we've had some of country's leading choreographers teach here, such as Michael Parmenter and Chris Jannides, as well as graduates who have gone to forge great careers like Neil Ieremia of Black Grace and Malia Johnston, who is now the artistic director for the World of Wearable Arts," Griggs explains.

"Choreofest continues that tradition and audiences will get the opportunity to see the next generation of contemporary dance talent coming through."

The Choreofest Festival will present three stimulating and diverse programmes: TAHI (25-28 August); RUA (8-11 September) and TORU (22-25 September) with each programme featuring original choreographic work by the first, second and third year students.

"The students have been working around the clock, literally, for 12 hours a day, seven days a week. This performance is the outcome of great innovation, organisation and countless hours of rehearsal. And at just $5 for students and a $10 discount for all Unitec staff, you won't see a professional performance anywhere this cheap," she says.

All shows will be held at the Unitec dance studios in Building 7, Mt Albert campus. Door sales are limited as tickets are selling fast.

Book your tickets now on iTICKET http://www.iticket.co.nz/events/search/?searchtext=choreofest or by calling (09) 361 1000. Booking fees may apply.

WHAT'S ON?

CHOREOFEST TAHI
When: Wed 25, Aug '10 - Sat 28, Aug '10, 7-9pm

CHOREOFEST RUA
When: Wed 8, Sep '10 - Sat 11, Sep '10, 7-9pm

CHOREOFEST TORU
When: Wed 22, Sep '10 - Sat 25, Sep '10, 7-9pm

Venue: Unitec Dance Studios, Gate 1, Carrington Rd, Mt. Albert, Auckland
Cost: Adult: $15, Concession: $10 with ID (Unitec staff, unwaged, seniors), Students: $5 with ID

ENDS/