Fans of the late American songstress Whitney Houston who were amongst the audience attending last Saturday’s spectacular dance production by the CFBC Dance Ensemble, were brought to tears, as special tribute was made to the former golden voice artiste who died recently.
In a dance, aptly titled “Inspired by Whitney”, the remarkable combination of dance dexterity, music and somber mood, proved too much for patrons who could not hold back the tears as they witnessed a tribute delivered with such mastery execution.
According to some reports, the Sir Cecil Jacobs Auditorium was “set ablaze with a burst of colour, rhythm and energy as the CFBC Dance Ensemble delivered an electrifying performance entitled “DANCE WORKS”.
For many of the dancers however, just to be prepared for the production was a personal sacrifice, as studies for exams were halted to facilitate their participation. Approximately 40 dancers formed part of the ensemble, delivering an exciting fusion of piano and steel pan music, song, poetry and dance, all making for what organizers called an enchanting evening.
From the opening number, “On the Floor” to the finale “Make that Change”, the patrons, apparently hungry for this treat, applauded and sang along; some could even be seen swaying in their seats as they eagerly awaited each item. The CFBC Dance Ensemble did not disappoint. They effortlessly executed well choreographed pieces which dealt with various themes- assertiveness, disappointment, celebration, nostalgia and change.
The CFBC Dance Ensemble has proven that dance ‘works’ and it was clear that the audience wanted more. No word yet however on the possibilities of an encore.
The range of dances showed the versatility of the Ensemble and spoke to the many hours of practice and hard work put in to create this masterpiece. It was indeed an exhilarating evening for which the organizers should be justly proud.
For the success of the evening appreciation has been directed to CFBC Lecturer Unoma Allen, the hilarious hostess, and to the Management Team comprising Candace Richards, Nekirah Nicholls, Donalene Roberts, Aldeen Isaac and Desi Brown.
The Technical Crew, Back Stage Team and Front of House Personnel all did a splendid job, said one official. Miss Julie Martin, Lecturer, and Director of the CFBC Dance Ensemble as well as choreographers Ozelle Martin, Candace Richards, Alphonso Henry, Nekirah Nicholls, Krystal Glasford, Aldeen Isaac, Heidi Slack, Shara Lee Mourillon, Julie Martin and Desi Brown continue to raise the bar and must be commended for an excellent production.