Dance ReviewDance group makes “Take 3” unique

Image: Dance ReviewDance group makes Take 3 unique:Dancers from L to R: Johnathan Cameron, Joseph Candelaria, Michelle Horner and Jennifer Morsilli. Photo courtesy of Dale Scholl:

Image: Dance ReviewDance group makes “Take 3” unique:Dancers from L to R: Johnathan Cameron, Joseph Candelaria, Michelle Horner and Jennifer Morsilli. Photo courtesy of Dale Scholl:

Lauren Robeson

The Irish band U2’s songs are gaining new meaning through the powerful dancing and choreography in Dale Scholl’s Dance/Art company’s latest production, “The U2 Experience: Take 3.”

In their latest show, four choreographers and 10 dancers groove to 21 of the group’s songs, like the 1980’s hit “With or Without You” and the more recent “Beautiful Day.” The show’s choreography works well by subtly infusing each song with political and social overtones.

The dancers perform spectacularly. Each has studied their craft for at least 10-15 years, and it shows. The tone of their dancing is emotional and passionate, as can be seen in their spirited performances of “Elevation” and “Beautiful Day,” and the calm songs in the “Torch of the Revolution” set.

The lighting and costumes contribute much to the show. Joan Liddicoat, who teaches technical production classes in the dance department at Sacramento State, acts as the production’s lighting director. She uses different shades of light to mirror the emotions and tones evoked by the songs. Blue and purple lighting accompany calm and sad songs, while more passionate, upbeat songs are framed by red and yellow lights.

The costumes provide much eye-candy to the show as well. The dancers change their clothes after each set, with the new outfits corresponding to the set’s design. For example, camouflage is worn for the songs in the revolutionary “Torch of the Revolution” set and slightly more daring clothes are used for the closer “That One Beautiful Day.”

While all of the songs and sets were extremely well done, two sets in particular stand out. “Wake Up,” a set by Joseph Candelaria, was phenomenal. This set showcased most of the show’s female talent. Candelaria’s choreography captured the song’s themes the best by pumping them full of vigor. This set also had some of the best songs and performances of the show, featuring “Pride,” “Numb” and “With or Without You.”

Another good set was “That One Beautiful Day,” which was, without a doubt, the most exuberant group of songs in the show. While some of the pieces in the show can be a little somber and depressing, most, like the 2000 hit “Beautiful Day,” are very spirited and fun. This set is the perfect lighthearted entertainment to end the show with.

“The U2 Experience: Take 3” continues from Nov. 21 through Nov. 23 at the Dancespace in Solano Hall, room 1010. All shows begin at 8 p.m. Tickets are available from the Sac State ticket office or online from Tickets.com Prices range from $16 for the general public, $13 for students and $8 for children.