Take a break from all the end-of-the-year homework and studying to attend a celebration of movement and music at the Fall Dance Concert.

“Dance Theatre is the resident dance company for the School of Theatre and Dance at Illinois State University and is holding its annual fall performance showcasing several of our most talented dancers,” Sara Semonis, head of the dance program, said.

The concert will include several genres of dance including modern, contemporary and classical ballet.

“Each work is original choreography created by faculty in the School of Theatre and Dance and guests from other universities,” Semonis said.

The dance styles represented in this show convey the diversity of Dance Theatre.

“Each dance work has its own ‘flavor’ or theme that represents the creative voice of the choreographer that created the work,” Semonis said.

This production includes a little bit of everything, from comedic to thought-provoking movement.

“There are 26 company members in Dance Theatre this semester, all of whom were selected by audition back in August and have been rehearsing for this production ever since,” Semonis said.

But the members of Dance Theatre are not the only ones who will be performing on stage.

“In addition, we have invited members of Illinois State Dance Association to perform, our new first year students in the Dance Program, as well as three of our current dance faculty,” Semonis said.

Aside from the dancers, many other people are involved behind the scenes who help bring the Fall Dance Concert to life.

The show is at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday Dec. 6, Friday Dec. 7, and with a matinee at 2 p.m. and a show at 7:30 Saturday Dec. 8 in the Center for the Performing Arts.

The show costs $17 for adults, $14 for ISU faculty and staff, and $12 for students and seniors age 60 and over.

“The Dance Program is holding its annual Silent Auction at the Friday performance to help raise funds to attend the annual American College Dance Festival Conference where we represent Illinois State University each year,” Semonis said.

There will be gift baskets that patrons can bid on before the show and during intermission. The highest bidders will be announced directly following the performance.

They are also holding the annual College of Fine Arts Redbird Giving Tree.

“Donations of nonperishable food items will be collected for the Midwest Food Bank, and may be left under the 25-foot decorated tree located in the lobby of the Center for the Performing Arts at any time between now and Dec. 16,” Semonis said.

“We are excited to fill the house for this production, as the performers are anxious to share their love of dance and theatre with those in the campus and local community,” Semonis said.

Dance can seem intimidating but Semonis explained that dance is truly accessible to everyone.

“The combination of athleticism, physicality, communication and sheer beauty of movement is something that can be experienced by everyone. I would encourage those who have never seen Dance Theatre perform before, to come visit us this year.  There will be something for everyone in this production,” Semonis said.