By Megan Holley
The Ogden Symphony Ballet Association presents BYU
Living Legendsat the Val A Browing Center
in Ogden, Utah. This breath–taking performance happened at Weber
State University in their newly renovated auditorium. Throughout the show,
the audience experiences cultures from all around the world including Native
Americans in the US, Bolivia, Hawai’i, Brazil, Alaska, Samoa, Paraguay, Tahiti,
Argentina, Bolivia, New Zealand, Mexico, and Tonga. Every culture is unique,
yet all have the same legend to pass on. To quote Janielle Christensen
who is the Artistic Director, “It is the story of a people: Seasons of faith
and prosperity, pride, and war, forgiveness and rebirth; Seasons known to all
people, in all nations, from the beginning of time”.
During the New Zealand portion, they perform a war Haka which is a ceremonial dance. “Te Wa o Tumatauenga, He Korero Riri”, which translates to the time of youth, and angry talk. This is why in the description of the dance they put “we will not back down but will gain victory”. Fun fact, Tumatauenga is the God of War in New Zealand. In the Samoan dance, they have such perfectly timed choreography that all the sticks the hold and bang hit at the same time, making a satisfying noise. The Native American culture did a hoop dance, which was the most impressive because they dance with hula-hoops. Along with the various cultures dancing, they also use their native language, which is thrilling.
BYU Living Legends is one that everyone should see; it is for all ages. As always, this is so much more powerful than watching a YouTube version. It is best to see it in person, it is far more thrilling seeing it right before your eyes. Come see this fantastic cultural experience.
The Odgen Symphony Ballet Association presents BYU Living Legends
Val A Browing Center 1901 University Circle, Ogden, UT 84408
February 28, 2019 7:30 PM
Tickets: Adults $13, Students $8.25, Military/Seniors $11
Contact: 801-422-3576
Living Legends Facebook Event
Megan Holley, BYU, Ogden Symphony Ballet Association, Janielle Christensen, Maya Nitta, Kayla Nitta, Chaylene Mataalii, Kaylee Tanner, Michael Handly, Yael Aragon, Trevor Oman
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