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The Arts Intel Report

A Cultural Compass
For the World Traveler
A Cultural Compass
For the World Traveler

Complexions Contemporary Ballet: Dream On

Alberto Andrade of Complexions Contemporary Ballet.

Nov 14–26, 2023
175 8th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA

Complexions Contemporary Ballet was founded in 1994 by the choreographer Dwight Rhoden and the much-loved dancer Desmond Richardson, who are co-artistic directors. The company has its own technique, called “Nique,” which develops dancers through a fusion of classical and contemporary dance methods. One of the dance world’s most interesting success stories, the company has recently formed a strategic partnership with Howard University, where it will provide Howard students with training and performance opportunities. Complexions brings some of those students to the Joyce this month, to dance Rhoden’s Black is Beautiful. The company’s new poet-in-residence, the MacArthur “genius” fellow Aaron Dworkin, makes his debut during this two-week engagement. If you’ve never seen Complexions, now’s the time. —Laura Jacobs

Photo: Rachel Neville