Dancefest Vermont spotlights work of 10 choreographers

Ten Vermont choreographers will present DanceFest Vermont! — new work in collaboration with professional dancers and costume, film and light designers — in performances on Friday, Sept. 5, at 8 p.m. at the Barre Opera House, and Saturday, Sept. 6, at 8 p.m. at Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, 122 Hourglass Drive, Stowe Mountain Resort.

In the Barre performance, solos by Paul Besaw and Erika Schmidt will reflect their investigations into Asian theater through their works “Pastor of Souls” and “Skin.” Patty Smith will present a trio of colorful theatrical dances. Toby Macnutt will present a solo and a duo, exploring the relationships of diverse and mixed-ability dancers. Willow Wonder brings an ensemble of dancers performing “Crate,” and Erika Schmidt presents a new ensemble work set to an original score.

In the Stowe performance, Lida Winfield and Ellen Ahern-Smith, collaborating with choreographer Tiffany Rhynard, present a dynamic work that interweaves movement and text with candor that explores visions of power, oppression and the female body. Hanna Satterlee will present an excerpt from “Animal,” created through investigations of instinct, pack behavior and evolution. Heather Bryce offers a new work. “Breathing Under Water,” and Pauline Jennings presents an excerpt from “6 phrases, 3 rules,” composed through a complex system that becomes the basis for structured improvisation. Paul Besaw’s “pure movement” piece for ensemble is set to original live music. 

Tickets: Barre Opera House, $20 adults, $12 students 18 and under; barreoperahouse.org, 476-8188. Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center, $20 in advance, $25 at door; 760-4634, SprucePeakArts.org.

Information: dancefestvermont.weebly.com.