The holidays are a time of motion and music. Fittingly, music has played a vital part in the identity of the Richard Alston Dance Company since its inception. Described as one of Britain’s most musical choreographers, Alston has used works by a diverse range of composers to explore how choreography can animate the spirit of music. Featured in this program will be the American premiere of Alston’s most recent work, A Ceremony of Carols, choreographed to Benjamin Britten’s masterpiece for voice and harp. The music will be performed live by Prima Voce, a brand new all-female choir made up of local vocalists, conducted by Montclair State’s Heather J. Buchanan, accompanied by harpist André Tarantiles. Also included will be Alston’s Roughcut and Unfinished Business, set to the music of Steve Reich and Mozart, respectively.

“A choreographer for whom every dance is a love affair with his chosen music” -The Times of London

A Ceremony of Carols was co-commissioned by The Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury; Sadler’s Wells and Peak Performances at Montclair State (NJ). Supported in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts.

*Undergraduate students at MSU receive one ticket at no additional charge to every event through the Performing Arts Fee. Tickets may be reserved at the Alexander Kasser Theater Box Office, with a valid student I.D.

TOY DRIVE!
Now - December 16
Peak Performances is joining area theaters in collecting toys for families in New Jersey who have been displaced by Hurricane Sandy. Bring a new, unwrapped toy on your next visit to the Alexander Kasser Theater. Collection bins will be located in the lobby through December 16.