Stepping right out of historyANN ARBOR&#8212His name and his music are known worldwide. And Ken Burns‘ PBS production of “Jazz” has introduced the man and his music to an even wider audience. Now the University of Michigan’s Dance Department will celebrate the 100th birthday anniversary of Louis Armstrong in “Hot Five Rondo,” to be performed Feb. 1-3 at 8 p.m. in the Power Center for the Performing Arts on U-M’s Central Campus [map] and Feb. 4 at 2 p.m. at the same location.

“Armstrong was one of the greatest innovators of Jazz whose profound influence is still evidenced today,” says U-M choreographer Robin Wilson. “His music celebrates life in a very passionate, joie de vivre way.”

Using vernacular forms of dance from the 1930s in combination with a film noir story of a crime of passion, Wilson weaves a tapestry of murder, mayhem and melody. “The work is a tribute to Black artists of the ’30s, such as the ballroom couple Norton and Margo and the Nickolas Brothers, who helped create and popularize the social dances of the period, like soft-shoe, hoofing, the Charleston, the Suzy Q, the Shorty George, and the Lindy Hop. Oftentimes these dances are devalued because they are part of the popular vernacular, but people forget the incredible technique and skill needed for the dances,” says Wilson.

Wilson set her dance to such Armstrong favorites as “Mahogany Hall Stomp” (audio link requires RealPlayer), “Stompin’ at the Savoy” (audio link requires RealPlayer) and “I’ve Got a Heart Full of Rhythm.” Chicago designer Jeff Bauer created the scenery and costumes for the work with lighting designer Mary Cole continuing her long-time association with the Dance Department.

The program will also feature “Rauxa” choreographed by U-M faculty members Bill DeYoung and Sandra Torijano and “Breaking the Silence” by guest choreographer Carlos Orta.

Ticket prices are $20 and $15 and are available at the League Ticket Office, located in the Michigan League on U-M’s Central Campus. The Ticket Office is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday-Friday. Reservations
The Power Center for the Performing Arts, located at 121 Fletcher Street, is handicapped accessible and equipped with an infrared listening system for hearing enhancement.

Ken BurnsRobin WilsonCharlestonMahogany Hall StompBill DeYoungLeague Ticket Office