Four stars
Jordan Academy of Dance; Butler University Lilly Studio Theater 310;
March 14-16

An invigorating hour of five demanding works by eight high-school-age dancers including Amanda Brantley, Emily Coan, Xavier DeMar, Taylor Fengya, Ariana Greene, Alyssa Goggan, Kate Lupke and Lydia Wathen. Opening with Nataly North-Lowder’s choreography on Mendelson’s luscious “Prelude to a Midsummer Night,” Theresa Duffy’s set and costumes were matched by meticulous ballet solos, mime and corps work. Roberta Wong’s “Speaking in Tongues” featured exuberant modern dance floor work. Andrea Bruce set “Fosse’d” to Sondheim for Amanda Brantley’s tap solo. The intellectual “Labyrinth” by Laura Hedges-Byram was beautifully realized through strong solo characterization and ensemble work. Larry Attaway’s madcap “La Malaza” was enhanced by Katie Lupke’s bold costumes. Laura E. Glover’s lighting was as a ninth dancer throughout. If you missed this romp from magic to madness catch JAD’s Celebration of Dance May 17. Log on to www.butler.edu/jcad.