Spring Dance 2025
Spring Dance 2025 brings movement and music together in a breathtaking display of artistry as East Carolina University’s School of Theatre and Dance presents an evening of dynamic and diverse performances.
“Depth (of) Perception” is this year’s student-choregraphed piece by ECU senior Adrian Jones.
Spring Dance 2025 is the second of two biannual concerts. This year’s performance includes choreography from Tommi Galaska, Timothy Lynch, Sayward Grindley, Merinda Evans, Adrian Jones, Dirk Lumbard, and guest choreographer Claudia-Lynn Rightmire.
Claudia-Lynn Rightmire is a multidisciplinary artist working in dance, writing, theater, and visual art. She has been a guest artist and educator at numerous institutions globally.
Rightmire will be presenting her dance piece, “for the sake of shaping,” which examines the multiple versions of self that individuals inhabit across different spaces and relationships. Through movement, dancers explore the transitions between these identities, from public personas to private selves, and question whether they can ever truly share these complex layers with others.
Along with Rightmire’s piece, ECU senior Adrian Jones will present his contemporary piece, “Depth (of) Perception.” Each year, one senior from SOTD is selected for the honorary role of student choreographer. This year, Jones received the honor.
“Depth (of) Perception” explores the daily algorithms, or patterns of life, that individuals experience and the lack of control over how others perceive them.
“This piece really explores the duality of finding freedom within the rigid structures and algorithms we’re placed in each day. I found lots of interesting nuances between robotic, sterile movement and natural human interaction,” Jones said.
Students rehearse for “Raison D’etre,” an original piece by choreographer, John Dixon.
Jones’ piece incorporates music from prominent pop, R&B and hip-hop artists, including Kendrick Lamar, Tyler, the Creator, SZA and Michael Jackson.
When selecting music for his piece, Jones aimed to find songs that conveyed his message and resonated with audiences, even if they were unfamiliar with the tracks.
“I really tried to pay close attention to the lyrics, tempos and overall moods of each song and align them in a way that would portray the arc of this piece. My professor John Dixon always emphasizes the need for an arc in choreography. All things must ebb and flow to keep the audience engaged, and music is just one storytelling vehicle of the bigger picture,” he said.
Making his choreographic debut, Jones is exploring new ways to tell a story through movement.
“Dancing and choreographing at the collegiate level has taught me so much about being a team player and collaborating with people from all walks of life. Compromise is key, and always trust your instincts. I’ve learned that it’s OK to take big risks because they bring the possibility of a big reward,” Jones said.
Jones shared his gratitude for the encouragement and inspiration from his peers and mentors. “I’m most inspired by my professors and friends. I’m in constant awe of their talents, but more importantly, I’m in awe of their big hearts and support of everybody. They are the positive, motivating force that keeps me going, and I couldn’t be more grateful for them.”
Spring Dance 2025 will be performed in McGinnis Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday and at 2 p.m. on Sunday.