Chung-Fu Chang will be dance studies guest artist in residence at Geneseo Feb. 21-25.
GENESEO, N.Y. – SUNY Geneseo’s Asian/Asian American Studies and Programming and the Department of Theatre and Dance are sponsoring dance studies guest artist Chung-Fu Chang in residence Feb. 21-25.
Chang is a full professor in the Colorado State University (CSU) School of Music, Theatre and Dance and has showcased his theatrical works and performances in many parts of the world.
Orchesis, the student dance organization, is sponsoring his master class Feb. 21 from 4 – 5:15 p.m. in the Brodie Hall Dance Studio, Room 152. He also has a number of rehearsals scheduled throughout the week.
During his visit, Chang will be creating a new work for the Geneseo Dance Ensemble, tentatively titled “Wandering River,” inspired by the beauty of traditional long sleeve dance, which he says is one of the most imaginative and theatrical dance styles in many Asian countries. The dance originated in China during the Han Dynasty, dating back to 206BC – 220AD.
Chang says his dance movement is based on his rich Taiwanese cultural background and movement studies in Taiwan and the Western modern traditional and contemporary practice of dance making in the United States.
“It has evolved and is greatly influenced by my presence in contemporary societies, with a distinctive fusion of the East and West,” said Chang. “My approach to dance movement and concepts stems from inner instinct and motivation to create a comfortable space, as well as expanding to the outer spatial awareness.”
Chang received an Outstanding Faculty Award from The Tau Iota Omega Chapter of Mortar Board in 2008 and a Best Teacher Award from the CSU Alumni Association in 2009. He was a Chancellor's Fellowship recipient at the University of California, Irvine, where he earned his M.F.A. in Dance. He has received more than 80 choreographic commissions from professional ballet and modern dance companies, educational dance institutions and festivals nationally and internationally.
Randy Barbara Kaplan, professor of theatre, is program director for Asian/Asian American Studies and Programming at the College. Jonette Lancos, professor of dance studies, is artistic director for the Geneseo Dance Ensemble.