UK Department of Theatre and Dance presents ‘Visions in Motion’

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Jan. 23, 2026) — The University of Kentucky Department of Theatre and Dance will present its annual dance concert, “Visions in Motion,” Feb. 6-8 in the Guignol Theatre.

Featuring works that span jazz, postmodern dance and classical Indian dance, “Visions in Motion” showcases choreography by UK resident faculty members Theresa Bautista, Janie Morgan and Laura Neese; student choreographer Allison Gates; and guest choreographer Lakshmi Sriraman, recipient of the 2025 Kentucky Governor’s Awards in the Arts Folk Heritage Award. The concert also includes a special live musical performance by Lexington Philharmonic cellist Ethan Young.

“Visions in Motion” marks the third fully live audio-described dance concert presented by the UK Department of Theatre and Dance, continuing the department’s commitment to accessibility and inclusive performance practices.

“Audio description not only provides access for patrons with vision impairment, but also supports anyone who may be unfamiliar with or intimidated by modern dance,” said Laura Neese, the concert’s artistic director. “It offers enhanced context that can deepen understanding and enjoyment of the work.”

Audio description devices will be available upon arrival for any audience member who needs them. Technological support for the performances is provided by the Bluegrass Council of the Blind.

After the Feb. 6 show, the department is hosting a post-show Q&A with the dancers, choreographers and designers. A free preshow discussion will be 1 p.m. prior to the Feb. 8 matinee. The discussion is open to all audiences and geared especially toward patrons with visual impairments and their families. During the discussion, attendees will meet choreographers and performers, learn about each work in the concert, experience costumes and props up close, and ask questions about the production.

Featured works include:

“Funky Flock: Taking Flight”

Choreographed by Janie Morgan, this high-energy work celebrates rhythm, freedom and community. Set to music by Lionel Hampton, Charlie Christian and Benny Goodman, the piece moves from grounded grooves to soaring movement, as dancers weave playful patterns that evoke the joy and vitality of a flock in motion.

“Repatterning”

In Laura Neese’s intimate fusion of live music and movement, four dancers perform alongside cellist Ethan Young to Mark Summer’s “Pattern Language.” Shifting between solitude and connection, the work explores how joy and human connection can be reimagined through collaboration.

“Do, don’t, wait”

Theresa Bautista debuts this abstract trio that examines action, inaction and the fragile balance between camaraderie and incompatibility. Set to music by Kirill Richter, the piece highlights physical athleticism while inviting reflection on missed opportunity and choice.

“I’m pretty ******* scared… or… throwing spaghetti”

Student choreographer Allison Gates explores the fear of running out of time. This work for nine dancers is set to Philip Glass’ “Glassworks: I. Opening.” Through shifting group formations and contrasting tempos, the piece examines how momentum builds and how bodies navigate the tension between stasis and sudden propulsion.

“When the Clouds Speak”

Guest choreographer Lakshmi Sriraman brings the classical form of Bharatanatyam into a contemporary ensemble setting, following the emotional arc of an approaching storm. Using rhythmic structures and spatial patterns inspired by monsoon rains, the work invites audiences to experience narrative through sensation, honoring classical tradition while expanding its storytelling possibilities.

“Visions in Motion” performances will be 7:30 p.m. Feb. 6-7 and 2 p.m. Feb. 8 in the Fine Arts Building’s Guignol Theatre, 465 Rose St. Tickets are $22 for adults and $14 for students (additional fees may apply online) and are available through the Singletary Center for the Arts box office at scfatickets.com or by calling 859-257-4929.