Turning points

Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago's annual appearance on the Skyline Stage at Navy Pier would raise the roof, if there was one.
For sure, the giant space-age–looking tentlike venue will vibrate with sound and motion like a UFO ready for takeoff to the outer limits. The program, titled "In the Spirit," will start with a medley of favorite dances accompanied by an orchestra of koutero drums, continue with works choreographed by two major African choreographers and conclude with the 45-strong choir of Charles G. Hayes & the Cosmopolitan Warriors.

Guinean drum and dance master Moustapha Bangoura danced with Les Ballets Africains for 22 years, touring to 165 cities around the world; now he's settled here in Chicago. He has staged two pieces for Muntu that the company will perform at the Pier. Mamaya and Hamana both draw on traditional celebrations and ceremonies of Guinea. Abdoulaye Camara, also from Guinea, is a globe-trotting dance and drum teacher who does quite a bit of work in Scandinavia. A passionate advocate for the spiritual, intellectual and healthful benefits of African dance, he has also staged two works for Muntu: Lenjengo and Econne Econne.

Muntu's own Amaniyea Payne and Vaune Blalock joined forces to choreograph to the song "Jesus Can Work it Out," which will be sung by the powerhouse Warriors Gospel Choir. "In the Spirit" will be performed on Wednesday 29 at 7pm. Don't bother wearing socks, because they'll likely get knocked off.—Asimina Chremos