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'In the Spirit of the Dance' showcases diverse talents

The Georgia Dance Theatre, the nonprofit performing company

housed at the Georgia Academy of Dance in Peachtree City, will present "In

the Spirit of Dance" this weekend. Performances are scheduled for March 6 at

8 p.m. and March 7 at 2 p.m. at the Starr's Mill High

School auditorium. Tickets are $7 and can be purchased

at the door or at the Georgia Academy of Dance.

Georgia Dance Theatre will present such diverse works as "Angels,"

a contemporary classical dance depicting the fall and redemption of man

and how angels played a part in that process. "Everything for Free" is a

contemporary piece that takes a somewhat comical look at insanity, and

Gloria Estefan's "Oye" provides a fast, upbeat jazz performance. These

pieces, among others, will highlight the company's dancers and choreographers.

Since its inception in 1990, Georgia Dance Theatre has been

"committed to bringing quality productions to the community as well as providing

an avenue of intense study and performing opportunities to those interested

in pursuing a professional career in dance," said a spokesperson.

In 1997, Georgia Dance Theatre Professional Company became part

of Georgia Dance Theatre and is the only professional company in

surrounding local counties. With performances such as "In the Spirit of Dance,"

Georgia Dance Theatre is providing its 34 scholarship members the opportunity

to work with professional artists and choreographers in the field of dance.

The company has received grants from the Fayette County

Endowment Committee for the Arts and support from the Partners in the Arts. They

had sold-out performances at Wadsworth Auditorium in Coweta County

where the company presented its "Nutcracker Suite." In return, the company

has provided support to the Newnan Auditorium Restoration Project, Starr's

Mill Auditorium, Christian City and other local schools and charities.

In the last nine years, Georgia Dance Theatre members have

received acceptance and scholarship letters to many professional schools. In July,

the Georgia Dance Theatre and the LaGrange School of Ballet will host

an intense summer program at LaGrange College with professional

instructors from such renowned companies as the Atlanta Ballet, Dance Theatre

of Harlem and Ballet Mississippi.

For more information about the dance company or its

performances, call 770-631-3128.

What : 'In the Spirit of the Dance'

Who : Georgia Academy of Dance

Where : Starr's Mill H.S. Auditorium

When : Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m.

Tickets : $7

Information : 770-631-3128

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