Press Release

First Graduating Class of Naropa University's Interdisciplinary BFA
in Performance Brings Innovative Performances to the Stage

Five students showcase their talents in two unique performances

BOULDER, Colo. (November 4, 2005)–Naropa University's interdisciplinary BFA in Performance showcases the work of its first graduating class with two performances that offer unique new voices to the world. "Diafora" premieres at 8 p.m., November 19 and 20, 2005, at The Magic Playhouse, 5311 Western Avenue, Boulder. This double feature displays the work of seniors David Kelly and Melisa Frances Colon and explores themes of change and revolution in sexuality and civil rights. Both performances are free and open to the public. "SeaLevel" exhibits the work of seniors Caitlin Schick, Katie Stimpson and Reeva Wortel at 8 p.m., December 2 and 3, 2005, at Naropa University's Performing Arts Center, 2130 Arapahoe, Boulder. This evening of dance, theater and visual media reflects on the relationship between daunting social issues and intimate personal realities. Ticket prices are $2 for the general public and $1 for Naropa students, staff and faculty. The public may contact 303-245-4833 for more information.

"Diafora" depicts two challenging and heroic journeys. The first half of the evening premieres "Kw-ear," David Kelly's vibrant and touching coming-of-age tale revolving around sexuality and gender. The second half of the evening's double feature, Melisa Frances Colon's "Soledad Blues," takes the audience on a journey through the revolutionary scene of the 1960s civil rights movement. A complimentary dessert reception will be held during intermission.

"SeaLevel" introduces the voices of three unique women with three thematically linked works. Caitlin Schick's "Girls from the Land of Plenty" chronicles the personal and often bittersweet journey of one girl forging her way into womanhood. Katie Stimpson's "for lack of" burrows into the subconscious of the United States where the lines between poetry and news, vivid dreams and media images blur. "The Heart of the Fierce Face," conceived by Reeva Wortel, follows the story of one life through a series of struggles that define and question the state of poverty.

As members of the BFA in Performance program's first graduating class, these five emerging artists bring exciting and innovative talents to the world of contemporary performance. Naropa University's interdisciplinary BFA in Performance is an innovative arts training program designed for the student who wants to pursue conservatory-style ensemble training in theater, dance and voice in an environment that also cultivates the integration of mindfulness/awareness practices, individual creativity and critical study. At the core of the BFA's mission are community-based workshops, partnerships with broader society, cultural and historical awareness, diversity training and re-visioning the role of the artist in the twenty-first century.

Accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Naropa University is a private, nonprofit, nonsectarian liberal arts institution dedicated to advancing contemplative education. This approach to learning integrates the best of Eastern and Western educational traditions, helping students know themselves more deeply and engage constructively with others. The university comprises a four-year undergraduate college and graduate programs in the arts, education, environmental leadership, psychology and religious studies. It offers BA, BFA, MA, MFA and MDiv degrees, as well as professional development training and classes for the community. In addition, the university runs study abroad programs in Sikkim, India and Prague, Czech Republic.

Contact

Jane Rubinstein
Director, Marketing and Communications
Naropa University
PH 303-245-4643
jrubinstein@naropa.edu

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