Date: January 20th, 2024
Venue: Newman Center for Performing Arts
Author: Patrice Harris
Music From The Sole, choreographed and performed by Gregory Richardson, Leonardo Sandoval, and the talented company members, brought an electrifying celebration of tap and Afro-Brazilian music to the Newman Center for Performing Arts. Executive Director Aisha Ahmad-Post and the team delivered a night that not only entertained but also deeply connected the audience to tap’s Afro-diasporic roots and its vibrant lineage.
From the very first moment, the performers broke the traditional boundaries of the stage. Entering from the sides of the concert hall, clapping and playing instruments, they made their way through the audience, immediately engaging everyone in the space. The energy was infectious and immediately, the entire audience joined in clapping and dancing, setting the tone for an amazing night. The performers’ outfits, a joyful array of bright colors, further amplified the lively, celebratory atmosphere inspired by Afro-Brazilian dance and music.
The first act began with a bright pink background that served as an energetic canvas. As the performers tap danced, their shadows reflected against the pink, creating a mesmerizing illusion of dozens of dancers moving in celebration. This visual effect was both playful and profound, enhancing the sense of community and rhythm. The lighting and set design throughout the performance were nothing short of masterful, effortlessly transitioning between moods and scenes, and becoming an integral part of the storytelling.
A soulful solo followed, spotlit to create a moment of focus. Four dancers soon joined, tapping in such perfect unison that only a single tap sound could be heard. The precision was stunning, showcasing the incredible skill of the performers. The music transitioned into a funky beat, accompanied by a blue background with a moonlit motif, evoking the spirit of Samba Nights and/or Carnival. This transition embodied the essence of Afro-Brazilian culture, blending joy, rhythm, and a sense of celebration.
As the performance progressed, the sunrise-like hues of a bright orange background emerged. The dancers introduced body claps, producing intricate, staggered rhythms without any instruments. The absence of traditional music was barely noticed as the dancers’ movements became the melody, building to a crescendo before instruments joined in. This sequence led to an engaging display of couple dancing, weaving in salsa and Afro-inspired movements, adding yet another layer of cultural richness.
A particularly striking moment came when only two dancers remained on stage. Their silent performance, reminiscent of worship, was profoundly moving. The audience was completely quiet, absorbed by the raw emotion and depth conveyed without sound. This silence gave way to a vibrant green background as the ensemble returned, with one dancer stepping forward to demonstrate their skills while others tapped in the background. It was as if the stage became a canvas, with each dancer painting their story in rhythm. The act closed with the instrumentalists singing alongside the dancers, culminating in a roaring applause and the audience was shouting, “Bravo!”.
The second half began with a serene blue backdrop and a solo dancer who seemed to glide effortlessly across the stage, tapping with a lightness that felt like dancing on clouds. This transitioned into a quartet of dancers who matched the soloist’s airy movements, incorporating mesmerizing slides that added a dreamlike quality to the performance. The music, light and whimsical, perfectly complemented this ethereal segment.
Next came an entertaining tap showdown between two dancers, a highlight of the evening. Their playful competition, filled with humor and flair, drew laughter and cheers from the audience. It felt like a conversation in rhythm, each dancer responding to the other with increasingly intricate moves. The camaraderie and chemistry were palpable, making this segment a crowd favorite.
The performance then shifted to a darker tone, with dim lighting that gradually brightened. The dancers repeated a step that grew more complex, mirroring the building layers of the music. As they formed a line and began looping through each other’s movements, the rhythm became irresistible. By this point, I was ready to join in, swept up in the contagious energy.
The finale was a spectacular culmination of music, dance, and joy. The performers sang “Oba oba…” as the audience clapped and danced along. As they exited the stage in the same way they entered—through the audience—everyone felt like part of the performance. Even in the lobby, people were still singing, tapping, and carrying the energy of the evening home with them.
Music From The Sole was more than a performance; it was a celebration of culture, rhythm, and connection. With its seamless integration of tap, Afro-Brazilian influences, and live music, paired with lighting and set design that elevated every moment, the night was a testament to the power of dance and music to unite and inspire. It’s no surprise that the audience left with full hearts, tapping toes, and memories to cherish.
Patrice Harris
Patrice Harris is a new writer for Presenting Denver. Born and raised in Denver, Colorado, Patrice’s passion for the arts started at a young age. She participated in various forms of art, including theater, piano, and visual art.
Patrice attended Colorado State University in Fort Collins, where she received her Bachelor of Science in Health and Exercise Science, and Psychology. During her time at university, she continued to explore her passion for the arts by participating in various creative programs and events.
After graduation, Patrice began working as a Resident Services Coordinator at Mercy Housing, where she supported and empowered residents in need of services and resources. There she connected residents to dance with workshops from Cleo Parker Robinson Dance.
In 2022, Patrice began working at WellPower, where she coordinates facility improvements and engages in community relations. In her free time, Patrice continues to write dance reviews and explore her love for the arts.