The crowd was quiet in anticipation as the curtains rose, and the lights slowly dimmed. Suddenly, the stage took on a green and blue hue, reflecting the colors of the ocean. In a swaying, rhythmic motion, the first dancer glided a cross, drawing the eyes of everyone in the crowd.

This is how “Speaking Movement,” the newest performance from Moorpark College’s dance department started. With all the hype, attractive posters and fliers floating around campus, it was expected to be something quite spectacular. And it never disappointed.

11 dance pieces were performed, and to add to the artistic effect, poets read aloud their writings inspired by the dances themselves.

Even after an unfortunate accident before the last show on Sunday, which kept Ryan Schultze, a major choreographer and dancer from performing, the show went on smoothly. Beth Megill, the artistic director of “Speaking Movement” and dance professor at Moorpark, expressed her pride for her pupils.

“He was a key contributor in the show, not just individually but as a partner,” said Megill. “We had people step up and want to help out. They took on a lot and pulled through.”

Even with a major setback, the show proved to be a well-rounded and strong performance. With several dance styles from ballet to bollywood, a strong variety of dancers and talented poets, “Speaking Movement,” brought on a whole new meaning for expression.

“From opening night to closing night, I think we really brought our best,” said Sabrina Sykora, a 17-year-old photography major and dancer. “Closing night, it’s got to be good. You can’t save yourself the next night.”

Living up to its name, “Speaking Movement” expressed personal stories relating to the dancers and sought to catch the hearts of everyone in the audience. From the toxic love story portrayed in “The Ties,” to the heart-wrenching depiction of lost love in “Won’t Let Go,” the performances reflected the themes of the dancers’ feelings.

“It was really well choreographed,” Jessica Parker, an 18-year-old English major said of the show. “The pieces were all really different, it made it really interesting.”

Though the dances carried some emotional weight while portraying love and death, others were bubbly and fun, depicting the splendor of summer, a humorous look at a woman’s life, and the final riveting showcase of bollywood.

“It was a real privilege working with these kids,” said Jane Jones, an English/creative writing major, and poet. “It’s nice to see the variety in expression. I’m really lucky to be in the same company.”

After a four-day string of performances, “Speaking Movement” closed curtains on Sunday, Nov. 21, taking with it the shining example of expressive dance and poetry.

Lauryn Anderson, an 18-year-old undecided major, described the show.

 “It was heart-breaking, so beautiful.”

(Photos by Chad Jones)

(Photos by Chad Jones)

(Photos by Chad Jones)