Complexions dances at a physical extreme that reads instantly even if you have never watched ballet: hyperextended lines, a lot of floor, and pop and gospel in the pit. The Lavallade tribute puts three generations of Black American dance on one stage, with Richardson alongside former Dance Theatre of Harlem and Ailey principals. If you want options rather than one fixed bill, three rotating programs is the reason to come.
What to expect
Mixed repertory across three programs over two weeks, so what you see depends on the night. Expect athletic contemporary ballet, world premieres, and Testament set to spirituals including 'Swing Low, Sweet Chariot.' A curtain chat and a family matinee are scheduled within the run.
Good to know
- The Joyce is at 175 Eighth Avenue at 19th Street; the A/C/E or the 1 to 18th St both drop you within a block.
- Programs rotate, so check which bill is playing before you pick a night.
- Mixed-repertory evenings usually run under two hours with one or two intermissions.
- The Joyce sells discounted student and under-30 tickets through its box office.
- A curtain chat with the artists follows one performance in the run.
- The house is small and single-level with good sightlines; there is no bad section.
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Common questions
Are all the programs the same?
No. Complexions is presenting three different programs across the two-week engagement, so the repertory changes night to night.
What is Suite de Lavallade?
A one-night tribute to Carmen de Lavallade danced by Desmond Richardson, Christina Johnson and Sarita Allen to music by Bjork.
Is it good for a first dance outing?
Yes. The vocabulary is athletic and legible, and the Joyce's scale keeps the dancers close.
More this weekend
