As the Dance Theatre of Harlem is currently beginning its first season since the company disbanded over 10 years ago, I had high expectations awaiting this particular contemporary ballet performance. The first piece, Gloria, designed as a tribute to the culture and spirit of Harlem did not live up to the lively, cultural atmosphere described in the program. The piece was slow and at times boring; however the dancers used their weightless jumps and fluttering steps to keep the piece light and airy. The Black Swan pas de deux from Swan Lake did not live up to its reputation. At times, the music was very strong and powerful while the dancers presence did not match, but there was a strong relationship between the performing couple. The female had a gorgeous, expressive upper body while the male partner had very strong jumps. 

Far but Close utilized spoken word alongside the dancers with some of the words setting the scene for a romantic piece following two couples. The dancers remain together throughout the piece, finding a way to dance with the story, without literally creating movement that directly represented the words. The dark, light and close partnerships created an intimate feeling between the couples as well as the audience. The final piece, Contested Space, is the most contemporary of the dances and consists of a series of short works. The dramatic music and lighting help to create the contemporary feel among the couples on stage. The movement was unique and engaging. The constant changes between segments, however, did not come together well and made it seem as if you were watching many short, different pieces. It would have been nice to see one consistent thing that tied the pieces together and for the transitions to be a little less random.

Dance Theater of Harlem is a small company composed of young dancers who all have wonderful technique. As time goes on and the company grows and matures, I believe they will be able to deliver their work in a more powerful way. Until then, they need to bring in choreographers that will better display the dancers wonderful talent to help this company make a powerful comeback.