'Blueprints' leaves a lasting impression

Disiac dance company does not shy away from a challenge, that’s for sure. “Blueprints” features all of the technique and ingenuity that we have come to expect from diSiac, as well as some brand new innovations. diSiac exhibits an expansive range, from introspective lyrical pieces to fun and flirty hip-hop. In addition, dancers challenge themselves with new endeavors, such as belly dancing and stunting. Although the upbeat pieces will please any crowd, it is diSiac’s lyrical selection that impresses most in “Blueprints.”

DiSiac starts off strong with “Almost Had It All,” an intricate piece set to the popular Adele song, “Rolling in the Deep.” Choreographer Shawn Cruz ’10 creates complex formations and eye-catching choreography. A large, synchronized corps is juxtaposed against small groups of dancers which periodically break from the mold. The dancers are exceptionally expressive, representing anger, resentment and pain very effectively. The lyrical pieces only grow from there. Austin Giangeruso ’14 follows up with “The Calm,” choreographed to Mumford and Sons’ “After the Storm.” Performers in this dance seem to feel the despair in a heart-wrenching song and benefit from fresh and clean choreography.

Two lyrical pieces in particular tell the best stories: “Make It a Double,” choreographed by Adam Zivkovic ’11, and “Fleeting Opportunities,” choreographed by Maeve Drablos ’13. Zivkovic’s piece follows three alcoholics and the toll that their addiction takes on their friends and significant others. Sharp movements and dynamic partner work shine in this incredibly hard-hitting and emotional piece. Drablos choreographs to the well-known Goo-Goo Dolls song “Iris” and captures all the emotion behind a song about a love that can’t survive. Dancers in this piece experience fleeting moments of togetherness before continuing on with their lives. The dancers are truly convincing in their pain and take the audience along on this sad journey.

The highlight of “Blueprints” comes in “An Architecture,” choreographed by Jeffrey Kuperman ’12. In this piece, diSiac really shows its desire and ability to change things up. “An Architecture” emphasizes the abilities of diSiac’s men: Five of diSiac’s male dancers take the stage to show their pure strength. They perform difficult stunts with seeming ease: rolling, jumping and flipping all over the stage. The formations are unexpected and the choreography is something I can guarantee you’ve never seen before. Kuperman and his dancers showcase the originality for which diSiac is known.

“Blueprints” is solid, although not as innovative in its hip-hop representation. In “Daily Antics,” choreographed by Kristi Yeung ’14 and Yasmin Dagne ’14, a group of clowns reminds broken-down businessmen and an imploding couple of what it’s like to be young again. Although this story is cute, it comes across as a bit campy in its presentation. In addition, remixes of the songs “Young Forever,” by Jay-Z and “Your Song,” by Elton John are too slow to keep the audience engaged. Similar difficulties are encountered in “Creator,” choreographed by Kristi Yeung ’14 and Tola Emiola ’14. This piece appears rather exaggerated in its storytelling. However, in both pieces, dancers remain confident and synchronized in their movements.

The shining hip-hop moment comes at the close of “Blueprints,” with “EGR 527: Fembot Mechanics.” Choreographer Neia Prata ’11 utilizes upbeat songs “Girls on the Dance Floor” by Far East Movement and “Peacock” by Katy Perry. Dancers look secure in choreography and excited to hit every move. The audience will go absolutely wild for this fun ending to the show.

“Blueprints” is an excellent reminder to Princeton’s student body that diSiac is here not only to please the crowd, but also to show us new and creative material every semester. Dancers give their all in this performance, and it’s a pleasure to see such dedication manifest itself in a truly great collection of pieces. Their lyrical dances are moving and unforgettable, which is a feat to be proud of. While some hip hop pieces lack a “wow” factor, this does not detract from the overall value of “Blueprints.” Make sure you don’t miss diSiac’s “Blueprints” this weekend!