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The University of Georgia Performing Arts Center showcases the Paul Taylor Dance Company, recognized as one of the globe’s most illustrious contemporary dance troupes, on Sept. 19 at 7:30 p.m. at the Classic Center Theatre.
Established in 1954 by the iconic choreographer Paul Taylor, the ensemble has dedicated over 70 years to transforming the realm of American dance. Today, under the artistic stewardship of Taylor alumnus Michael Novak, the troupe remains at the vanguard of the discipline, combining Taylor’s masterworks with emerging voices that embody the variety and energy of contemporary dance.
The Athens performance will highlight three iconic pieces from the Taylor repertoire:
- Company B (1991) — Accompanied by tunes popularized by the Andrews Sisters, this cherished dance contrasts the lively essence of 1940s America with the harsh truths of World War II.
- Concertiana (2017) — The last piece choreographed by Paul Taylor prior to his passing, set to music by Eric Ewazen, reverberates with energy and joy.
- Esplanade (1975) — A celebrated work within modern dance, Taylor’s vibrant masterpiece transforms ordinary actions like running, skipping, and falling into a stunning exploration of movement and feeling.
The Paul Taylor Dance Company has graced over 600 cities across 66 nations, representing the United States at global festivals and maintaining an annual residency at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts in New York City. Renowned for its athleticism, creativity, and theatricality, the company continues to deliver what The New York Times has referred to as “America’s most expressive and exuberantly theatrical modern dance” to audiences worldwide.
In Athens, the company will also conduct a Piedmont Athens Regional Performance for Young People and collaborate with UGA dance students in a master class.
Taylor, regarded as one of the most remarkable artists this nation has produced, played a pivotal role in shaping and defining America’s indigenous form of modern dance from the onset of his career as a choreographer in 1954 until his passing in 2018. After performing with Martha Graham’s company for several years, Taylor uniquely connected the iconic founders of modern dance with the choreographers of the 21st century with whom he later collaborated.
Through his initiative at Lincoln Center, launched in 2015 — Paul Taylor American Modern Dance — he presented significant modern masterpieces from the past alongside exceptional pieces by today’s prominent choreographers and his own extensive repertoire. He also commissioned the next generation of choreographers to work with his esteemed company, thereby aiding in the future preservation of the art form.
This performance is made possible by the support of Christine and Thomas Pavlak Endowment.
About UGA Presents
UGA Presents serves as the University of Georgia Performing Arts Center’s premier series, bringing top-tier dance, music, theater, and dialogue to Athens. Through its performances and engagement initiatives, UGA Presents bridges the university and the community with international performing arts. Over the course of more than 40 events this season, audiences will commemorate the PAC’s 30th anniversary, culminating with a gala performance by superstar cellist Yo-Yo Ma on Feb. 1, 2026.
Three methods to obtain tickets
- Acquire tickets online at pac.uga.edu.
- Contact the Performing Arts Center box office at 706-542-4400, Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Visit the UGA Performing Arts Center box office, Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Five-minute parking is available in the drop-off circle at the Performing Arts Center for purchasing or collecting tickets.)
Audience members can create their own series of three or more performances at a 10% discount. UGA Presents single tickets begin at just $30 with promo code PAC30, and UGA student tickets are available for $15. To discover more about all UGA Performing Arts Center events, visit pac.uga.edu.
The article UGA Presents welcomes the Paul Taylor Dance Company to Athens appeared first on UGA Today.
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