The seventh annual Men Who Dance festival returns to the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale on Saturday, Nov. 28, at 8 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 29, at 3 p.m.
A video conversation hosted by Miami Community Newspapers publisher Michael Miller previews the event. Guests include Rafi Maldonado-Lopez, director of Sanctuary of the Arts and the Inter-American Choreographic Institute; choreographer Nathalia Arja, a former Miami City Ballet principal dancer; Clay Oliveira, the festival’s production manager; and Francisco Graciano, a choreographer and faculty member at New World School of the Arts.
The group describes the festival’s goal of challenging stereotypes about male dancers and showing a range of movement styles. Arja talked about choreographing for male dancers, especially when performers move beyond traditional partnering roles. Oliveira described the logistics of bringing multiple companies and artists together, from rehearsal schedules to lighting cues. Graciano, who started dancing as a child, said he wants students to find their own artistic voices.
The panelists also stressed the value of arts education and the connection between live performers and audiences. The festival is presented as a chance for artists of different companies, generations and backgrounds to build relationships.
Ticket and event information is available on the official Men Who Dance event page.
