Fuzion hosts solo dance-theater work in Sarasota

Some weeks back, Sarasota's Fuzion Dance Artists presented a thrilling concert of works by guest choreographers who came to town to work with company dancers.

Now Fuzion is bringing in another guest artist to perform a solo work. Anjali Austin is a member of the dance faculty at Florida State University. She was also, for 13 years, a performer with Dance Theatre of Harlem, one of the most important dance companies in the country.

Now she's coming to Sarasota with her interdisciplinary show "Threads."

She used a collection of 33 quilts crafted by her grandmother, who grew up in Florida, as a starting point, and created a piece that combines dance, theater and music in an examination of art, family and history.

"Within the solo work, I investigate the human experience during a historical period when society stunted and devalued African-American existence, contributions to society, and cultural and professional achievements," Austin said. "The piece speaks to strength and resilience amidst struggle and interweaves first-hand cultural histories from the lived African-American experience."

Leymis Bolanos Wilmott, Fuzion's artistic director, said "Threads" should appeal not just to dance aficionados, but also to theater lovers and people interested in history and folk art.

Austin will perform the 40-minute work at New College of Florida three times, on Wednesday and Thursday, and will discuss the work with the audience afterward.

Details: May 6-7, New College of Florida Black Box Theater, 5800 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Show times: 2 and 7 p.m. Wednesday, 7 p.m. Thursday. Tickets $15. Information: 941-345-5755.

-- Marty Clear

This story was originally published April 30, 2015 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Fuzion hosts solo dance-theater work in Sarasota ."