What is Xfest?
A message from the Department of Theatre and Dance
The fourth annual Xfest is underway, and we are thrilled to welcome dance and theatre performers from around the nation who bring the ever-evolving art of experimental theatre to SIUE and the community.
Xfest was founded in 2009 by the Department of Theatre and Dance, with Peter Cocuzza, professor of theater and dance, and Chuck Harper, associate professor of theater and dance, leading the efforts. With the creation of Xfest, the department has strived to give alternative theatre a thriving platform at SIUE and within the community.
“Since the inception of Xfest, we have aspired to both introduce alternative theatre productions to the campus and the community and to grow as a hub for artists to discuss and create fresh, unique work,” said Peter.
The Department of Theatre and Dance’s overall goal is to create and maintain an identity that makes our department distinctive among not only our peers but among other liberal arts theatre and dance B.A. programs across the country.
“By exposing our students to unique styles of theatre and dance, we encourage them to gain a better understanding of the discipline and to be inspired to create their own works,” said Chuck. “We also believe that it is important to share the creation of new works and gain exposure to experimental theatre, and Xfest plays a vital part in this learning-sharing process.”
Our Xfest performers have always contributed to our goals and mission as a department, and the 2013 performers will do no less. This year’s lineup of performers promises to entertain, inspire and amaze audience members of all ages. With both dance and theatrical shows, this year’s Xfest offers awe-inspiring, thought-provoking performances that not only “push the envelope” of traditional dance and theatre but also celebrate the stage and all of its nuances.
The University Dance Organization (UDO) is additionally working with Xfest 2013 dance performers to offer a master class, which will encourage members of the SIUE, Metro East and St. Louis communities to learn dance skills from premier performers and to gain a distinct sense of participation in Xfest.
Below is a list of our scheduled performers, performances and other Xfest activities for 2013. If you want to learn more, simply click on the names of the performers to be taken to a more detailed description of their work and vision.
We hope that you’ll be able to take part in our creative vision and share in all the Xcitement of Xfest 2013 this summer.
Xfest is made possible through the generous support of the Office of the Provost, College of Arts & Sciences, the Department of Theater and Dance and audiences like you. We would like to say a special thank you to Grant Andree and the SIUE Arts & Issues Series for partnering with Xfest to extend the series into the summer.
