School Performance: Cynthia Oliver Co. Dance Theatre | Turn, Turning, Turnt (KCYS)

Step into an exciting, interactive world of movement, imagination, and storytelling! Created by Dance at Illinois professor, choreographer, and director Dr. Cynthia Oliver, this dynamic performance highlights her tri-themed work Turn. Turning. TURNT, bringing together three powerful works in a way that feels accessible, engaging, and fun.

Tether taps into AfroFuturist ideas and the playful energy of double dutch, celebrating the creativity, dreams, and teamwork of Black girls. Fallow explores how we adapt and stay strong when things feel uncertain, encouraging young viewers to think about resilience in their own lives. Summon. Sow. Reap looks at what can happen when people work together—highlighting both challenges and the possibilities of growth, fairness, and change.

Designed especially with youth in mind, this version of Turn. Turning. TURNT features excerpts presented in a lively lecture-demonstration format. Audiences won’t just watch—they’ll be invited to participate, ask questions, and connect with the artists and ideas on stage.

With a vibrant blend of dance, music, and visual design, this performance creates a welcoming space for curiosity, creativity, and conversation—encouraging young people to reflect, imagine, and move forward with confidence.

Recommended for grades 7 and up