Ry’N Good
Staff Writer
Montage Theater of Dance, which is under the artistic direction of Tiffany Jefferson, is known to put on several productions for all ages to enjoy. It tells a story through the art of dance and is a multidisciplinary company that practices all genres of dance such as; tap, hip hop, jazz, ballet, African, and ballroom dancing.
Telling many stories such as The Princess of the Frog, Aladdin, The Dance of Egypt, 42: The story of the Negro Baseball League, Montage Theater of Dance has decided to present the story of The Lion King. The company will have the audience follow the story of Simba through the art of dance.
The Lion King has been a favorite for years for all generations. It has gone from being an animated hit movie in 1994, to selling out shows as a Broadway musical. The show also became a live version movie that featured some of the biggest stars like; Beyoncé and Donald Glover.
Montage will open their dance of the Lion King at the infamous Thalia Mara Hall, located in Downtown Jackson on Feb. 9. After the company officially opens their show at Thalia Mara, they finish their next three days of the show at Hinds Community College located in Raymond, Miss.
Jordan Jefferson, Student Government President, plays the role of Adult Simba. Sharing the stage with his family, and other Jackson State students he gave his thoughts on the show.
“I feel the Lion King holds a special part in all generations because it teaches you the right of passage from your parents to yourself, and sometimes that is an experience that a lot of people miss especially people in the African- American community,” Jefferson said.
He continued, “My favorite part of this show is honestly rehearsal. In rehearsal I feel is the best because we really get a feel of what everybody’s personalities ae like and how the show will turn out. Dancing with my mother I feel is a way of life because I’ve been sharing the stage with her since I was four, so it is special. It’s a bond that I share with my mom that’s untouchable.”
Tiffany Jefferson, who is the director of Montage as well Jordan’s mother, plays the lead hyena; Shenzi. Jefferson expressed her thoughts on the show stating,
“Everyone can relate to the “Lion King”. It transcends generations, time, culture, gender, etc. because it is the circle of life. Everything comes back around. That is a timeless concept that touches many. There are definitely special touches added to this show. Overall, it is a richer fuller production. We are using the concept of theater within Dance Theater in a fuller capacity. The audience will experience so many senses in this production,” said Tiffany.
She continued, “I have many favorite parts about the dance of the Lion King. It is a show that is near and dear to Montage Theater of Dance’s heart. It is the first time that we had a show where we were sold out and had to open the balcony. It is also a show that gelled so many of us together. Our dancers, cast, and productions team are a well-run working ensemble. I adore the fact and relish the moment we were at Carnegie Hall in New York City and received a standing ovation for doing the opening of the Lion King. On a personal note, I am grateful that all three of my children will share the stage with me and all of my dancing children.”
Jaylen Taylor, a senior journalism and media studies major from Canton, Miss., plays the role of Mufasa.
He shared that he is blessed and honored to play the powerful role.
“It is truly a great show, and I enjoyed the whole experience from the practices, to marketing the show, it was a beautiful experience,” Taylor said.
The Company is looking forward to more outstanding, life changing experience for they know it is only the beginning.
Be First to Comment