SoMar: ‘Not Our First Rodeo’

SoMar Dance Works announces its newest production, “Not Our First Rodeo,” an hour-long dance concert mixing world premieres and favorites from the company’s 26-year repertory, slated for Saturday, Feb. 22, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 23, at 2 p.m., in Walker Recital Hall on the campus of Mercyhurst University. Admission is free and open to the public.

While there may not be any barrel races, roping events, or bull riding, there is plenty of variety and entertainment from this seasoned group, with tones ranging from silly to surreal to sublime.

Featured is the return of “Rodeo (on a stick).” Originally choreographed in 2020, the dance is inspired by the work of Agnes de Mille and Aaron Copland. One notable difference between the famous ballet and the newer interpretation is that the dancers are all riding hobby horses.  

“It’s a bit of silliness. And who couldn’t use a bit of silliness from time to time,” said co-director Mark Santillano. “It’s light-hearted, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a technically challenging piece of choreography.”

Another dance featured is “Not a Pipe,” inspired by the works of surrealist painter René Magritte. The dancers weave in and out of various scenes, presenting a tapestry of other-worldly images. Rounding out the performance are “Piercing Darkness,” “For the Honey and You,” “Tributary of Life,” “Tippy Tops,” “Kalyana Mitra,” and a new film version of “Old Friends.”

Dancers include Mercyhurst Dance majors, faculty, and alumni: Emma Berkheiser, Katie Bleu, Kenzie Krommes, Maia Richards, Mia Semieraro, Madeleine Sipos, Moira Sullivan, Colton Swiger, as well as founders Mark and Solveig Santillano.

About SoMar Dance Works

Serving as co-artistic directors, choreographers, and dancers, Solveig and Mark Santillano are seasoned performers who have danced all over the world. Their choreography has been influenced by their association with their former companies, Pilobolus Dance Theatre and Momix. Solveig and Mark are also the proud recipients of the inaugural Erie Arts & Culture Artist Fellowship. More information can be found at www.somardanceworks.com.

Since the concert is free, SoMar is asking for donations through GoFundMe. For more information, contact Mark Santillano at 814-824-2176.