An ode to the energy, grace and power of the human body, the internationally known dance company Momix will perform in the Harman Hall of the Christopher Cohan Performing Arts Center Wednesday at 7 p.m.
Momix has been celebrated for its ability to materialize a world of surrealistic images through dynamic use of lights, shadows, props and humor. The dancers often wear fluorescent costumes and perform under black lights, creating a unique visual experience.
This is the second time Momix has performed at Cal Poly, said Peter Wilt, Cal Poly Arts Program Manager.
“It’s exciting, it’s different, it’s like nothing you’ve ever seen before,” Wilt said.
Momix is not solely based on contemporary dance but mixes acrobatics, dance and gymnastics.
“It emphasizes more athleticism, not modern dance, not ballet, but more movement and athleticism,” Wilt said.
The first time at Cal Poly, the dance ensemble performed “Opus Cactus,” inspired by a giant saguaro cactus seen by director Moses Pendleton in the Arizona Desert. “Opus Cactus” presented a vivid recreation of the colorful plant and animal life that exists in the desert.
Bringing the desert landscape to life in “Opus Cactus,” the dancers of Momix twisted and contorted themselves into tumbleweeds, cacti and reptiles including a Gila monster, a species of venomous lizard native to the United States.
“The show began with performers formed like a lizard with a tongue,” Wilt said.
On Wednesday, the group will perform “Best of Momix,” a series of dances based on the company’s most popular pieces, said Lisa Woske, public affairs for Cal Poly Arts. The program will include various segments such as “Dream Catcher,” “Pole Dance” and “Medusas.”
“The evening will be a compilation of the company’s finest and most thrilling works, sure to transport the audience from the mundane everyday to the absolutely magical,” Woske said.
A free pre-show lecture will be presented by Moon Ja Minn Suhr, theater and dance department faculty emeritus at 6 p.m. Suhr founded the Orchesis Dance Company, Cal Poly’s oldest concert dance organization founded in 1969, and has been teaching dance for 40 years.
The name Momix came from Moses Pendelton. “Mo” came from his name, “mix” came from the mixture of movement, Suhr said.
Momix is based in Washington, Connecticut and has toured throughout the United States, Europe, South America, Asia and Australia.
Student and adult tickets for the performance range from $20 to $44 and may be purchased at the Performing Arts Center Ticket Office or by phone at (805) 756-2787. Student rush tickets may be purchased at the door one hour before the event for $10 cash with a student I.D.