In literary terms, luminescence is defined as “a light that is not very bright.” Claire Vock, senior and director of the Luminescence dance performance, chose this title very carefully.
On Taylor’s campus, there are not many dance performances outside of musicals. For the dancers on campus, Luminescence gives them a chance to shine.
“Luminescence has provided … so many talented dancers [to] come out of the woodwork to be a part of this performance,” Vock said.
It is far from a recital, however. It is a story. Often there exists pressure in the world to ensure that one is performing at their highest capability, that their “light” is shining brightly at all times. But inevitably, when one’s light falters, the world can seem harsh and unforgiving. Through Luminescence, Vock hopes to emphasize that in those moments, one must look to and chase after the light of Christ.
With the help of friends and choreographers, Vock has created this story from the ground up in the past year. As an ensemble member, freshman Hanna Fritz sees Vock’s dream and is very excited to help it come to life.
“It’s a project — but more than that, it’s a narrative,” Fritz said. “I think that’s important to understand.”
Sophomore and ensemble member Caroline Sutter explained that the idea of having a narrative focus was what drew her to Luminescence.
“I liked the idea of getting to do a show that is unified and has one theme to it that tells a story,” Sutter said.
As director, Vock explains that she will not be dancing herself, but watching her and her friends’ hard work come to fruition. The year’s worth of work will be on stage with Vock watching alongside the audience.
“Once the performance starts, my job is done. I get to watch my friends dance and celebrate the growth I've had throughout college,” Vock said.
This is the first time a completely student-run dance performance has happened at Taylor, and Vock is extremely excited. She hopes that Luminescence will be a testament to God’s faithfulness throughout the process of creating the show and her collegiate career, and hopes that those who attend can see that.
Looking forward, there is hope that more events utilizing a narrative form of dance will appear on campus because of Luminescence. With an obvious lack of shows for dancers on campus except for the occasional chapel performance or musical, Luminescence sets the stage for future modern contemporary dance narratives.
Creating a space where incredible dancers can express a story and a vision is something that excites Vock, Fritz and Sutter. Luminescence aims to do just that.
Luminescence showed May 12 at 7 pm in the Mitchell Theatre.
