At the Myrtle Woldson Center at Gonzaga University on Oct. 10 Complexions Contemporary Ballet brought their program “This Time with Feelings 2025” to life.
The evening was more than a performance–it was a moving reflection of humanity.
The title has stirred up more emotions than a performance on a Friday night in October for me. The year 2025 has stagnated my hope for people of color in America. Here’s some of the reasons I feel this way:
- The rise of overt xenophobia
- A threat to civil rights and inclusion
- Undermining tribal sovereignty and symbolic disempowerment
- A rollback of diversity initiatives
- Targeting Black voices and history
Creators and performers–artists, musicians, dancers, actors, writers, photographers, and others who bring art to life–have always stood on the front lines of civil rights. That truth was alive on stage through Complexions Ballet.
This performance became a moment of hope for me. It didn’t just move me emotionally–it called me to action. Thank you, Arts at Gonzaga, for sponsoring an event that reminded me that art still heals, still protests, and still unites.
Complexions unites dancers from diverse cultures into one expressive ensemble. Their movement spoke of our world as an interconnected whole, a celebration of unity through Art.
Each turn, leap and balance was clean and controlled, yet full of grace and strength. The partnering was seamless and deeply in sync, showing trust and emotion beyond technique.
The choreography flowed naturally with the music, blending innovation and tradition into something timeless.
Dancer Jillian Davis stood out with her commanding presence and fluid artistry–simply breathtaking.
As the curtain closed, I left with a deep sense of gratitude for being part of God’s creation and for evenings that remind us how art can move the soul.