The Week in Dance: Truth & Beauty, Black Grace

Austin is a fine place for dance lovers to live. We have a talented and forward-thinking ballet company in our midst as well as enough magnetism to attract world-class dance companies for the occasional visit. In the space of a week we’ll have two chances to see some raw excitement on our stages, so consider the following opportunities as you plan your culture calendar.

We told you about this event a few days ago but couldn’t resist mentioning it one more time. This weekend marks the world premiere of Truth & Beauty/The Bach Project, a three-part performance that fuses the choreography of Ballet Austin’s Stephen Mills with the music of Johann Sebastian Bach, Philip Glass and Graham Reynolds. Timeless notions of high art collide with modern sensibilities in this highly-anticipated production, the second collaboration between Mills and Reynolds following 2008’s Cult of Color: Call to Color. You’ll have three chances to catch the show, so show some love to your favorite local performing artists this Valentine’s weekend.

Keep the momentum going by checking out Black Grace next weekend at Bass Concert Hall. This traveling company formed in Auckland, New Zealand is known for their energy and innovation in the realm of modern dance and will be performing on Feb. 20. By combining Pacific-style movements and storytelling with a contemporary and often playful aesthetic, this all-male group has become known for being talented, athletic and entertaining. Based on the reviews and video we've glimpsed of them, it looks like Austin is lucky to have the chance to see these renowned dancers do their thing.

Tickets for Truth & Beauty/The Bach Project start at $24 and performances are this Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Black Grace tickets are $10 for students and range from $22 - $38 for non-students. The performance is next Saturday, Feb. 20.

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