Watch the story of Helen Keller and her teacher Anne Sullivan come to life through dance during a Thodos Dance Chicago performance at Moraine Valley Community College on Saturday, Feb. 6, at 7:30 p.m.
Named one of the top ten dance events of 2013 by the Chicago Sun-Times and nominated for an Emmy Award, “A Light in the Dark, the Story of Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan” is a one-act story-ballet that tells the intimate family story of Helen Keller, who was deaf and blind, yet became a famous writer, political activist and inspiration, and her teacher Anne Sullivan, who led Keller into a world of education, activism and intellectual celebrity. Their 49-year relationship evolved from teacher to governess and eventual companion. An original score was created exclusively for this work by composer Bruce Wolosoff.
“The story of Helen Keller inspired me because human miracles inspire the soul. Naturally, I thought of Melissa, our past creative collaborations and her incredible ensemble of dancers when I wanted to take the idea of telling Helen Keller’s story through dance from mere concept to reality,” said Ann Reinking, choreographer and Broadway actress.
Reinking and Thodos traveled to the Helen Keller National Center on Long Island where deaf and blind people learn new life skills, including navigating with their disability.
“We spent a day at the center and came away with a deeper understanding of the deaf/blind community and a fueled passion for the development of our new work together,” Thodos said.
The second act of the show at Moraine Valley will feature works from Thodos Dance Chicago’s vibrant repertoire showcasing its award-winning style described as “breathtakingly athletic” and “powerfully beautiful.”
The story-ballet will take the stage in the Dorothy Menker Theater, in the Fine and Performing Arts Center, on campus, 9000 W. College Pkwy., Palos Hills. Tickets are $25 for the general public and $20 for seniors and students.
Tickets to Thodos Dance Chicago and other upcoming performances can be purchased at morainevalley.edu/fpac, by calling (708) 974-5500, or at the Box Office located on the south end of the Fine and Performing Arts Center.
For news media inquiries, call Jessica Crotty, College and Community Relations coordinator, at (708) 974-5281, or e-mail her at crotty@morainevalley.edu.
