San Jacinto College South Campus’s Performing Arts Company presents “Kaleidoscope” April 28 and 29, a dance concert featuring performances by students, faculty, and guest dancers.

Proceeds from the concert will benefit Unbound Houston, an organization based in Pearland that raises awareness about human trafficking.  

Choreographer and dance department director, Jamie Williams, said her goal for this show is to widen the program’s exposure, but to also reach prospective students in the hope they will pursue their calling to dance.

“There are so many people in our community who don’t realize we have a dance program,” Williams said. “Our student performers and dance faculty have actually been recognized by the American College Dance Association as one of the top programs in our region for three years in a row; specifically for our high-quality performance and choreography.”

The concert features a variety of dance styles ranging from modern contemporary to jazzier works. Moreover, several pieces will address prominent social issues like bullying and gender equality. 

“These works are intended to make the audience think and to start important conversations,” she said. “Some of the works are simply entertaining, offering a light-hearted, fun, and quirky environment.”

Furthermore, Williams said she considers the audience when producing the choreography, noting that reactions to political performances can be unpredictable.

“When you create controversial work, you take a big risk… You risk triggering a multitude of different responses that may be unexpected,” she said. “I think I ultimately just had to let go of the fear that people may not like my work. I have to be okay with how it may be perceived.”

Williams said she believes the program has developed high standards that inspire each student to develop individually.

“We have really pushed the limits with our work,” she said. “I think that every semester our choreographers work to create more physically challenging and emotionally stimulating work.”

Meanwhile, Williams said she would continue to encourage the dancers to grow artistically while connecting with the audience in a meaningful way.

“Ultimately, we just want to showcase our dancers in their very best light,” she added, “and show the community all that our program has to offer.”

“Kaleidoscope” takes place at 7 p.m. on April 28 and 29 in the Flickinger Fine Arts Center (S15) on the South Campus. Tickets cost $10 or $5 with a college ID and are available at www.SanJacDance.TicketLeap.com.