By Haley Scott Parker
Samford Dance Company held its annual showcase in Harrison Theatre this past weekend, and it was a true display of the talent that hides around campus.
“View from My Window” is based on a book that took shape in a 2020 Facebook group by the same name. This group allowed people around the world to share what they saw during the COVID-19 pandemic and remind them that there is still a connection to others despite physical separation.
As the lights dimmed and the velvet curtains rose, the show was introduced over the speakers and invited audience members to be involved in the show, saying, “Imagine this space as your living room, and the stage as your window.”
The show included 12 pieces, each being inspired by a photo from the Facebook group. The photo would be displayed on a screen behind the dancers as they transformed the stage to tell the audience a story.
Stories of universal experiences during the pandemic were displayed through varied styles of dance, ranging from hip-hop to pointe ballet, and expressed the fear and curiosity that those who lived through 2020 know and love.
The dancers were captivating with their swift movements, beautiful costumes and unified breaths. Each member of the company gave their all to the pieces and allowed their love for what they do to fill the room.
The Samford Dance Company ended the showcase with an emotional piece choreographed and performed by their seniors to “What a Wonderful World” by John Batiste, which concluded the journey back to a time where the class of 2026 had lost so much.
As the dancers came to the edge of the stage for their final bow, it was visible that this dance company is a family as they hugged, cried and jumped for joy while the curtains returned to their original place.
