SoMar Dance Works

Hello, fellow Pennsylvanians, especially those of us who appreciate vibrant and innovative artistry right here in Erie! Have you ever sought a dance experience that is not only beautiful but also deeply thought-provoking? Look no further than SoMar Dance Works. This exceptional dance company, in residence at Mercyhurst University, has been a driving force in Erie's performing arts scene since its premiere in 1999. Founded by the internationally acclaimed co-artistic directors Solveig and Mark Santillano, SoMar Dance Works is celebrated for its commitment to original contemporary choreography that blends artistry, physicality, wit, and creativity.

SoMar Dance Works is more than just a dance company; it's a testament to the power of movement as a narrative and expressive art form. Solveig and Mark Santillano, both seasoned performers with impressive backgrounds including MOMIX and Pilobolus Dance Theatre, bring a unique blend of global experience and local dedication to their work. Their choreography is known for its ability to tell stories, evoke emotions, and even delve into social commentary, making each performance a rich and engaging experience for the audience. They believe that "there is nothing better suited for expressing the human condition than bodies in motion," a philosophy that permeates their innovative and interdisciplinary approach.

Over the years, SoMar Dance Works has become synonymous with high-quality, inventive dance in Erie and beyond. They have performed at prestigious events like the Erie Festival of Dance, Celebrate Erie, and even international festivals, garnering critical acclaim for their consummate professionalism and artistic ingenuity. For locals, having such a renowned company in residence at Mercyhurst University means unparalleled access to world-class dance performances and the opportunity to witness cutting-edge choreography right in our own community. SoMar Dance Works continuously strives to enrich, enlighten, and entertain, making it a true jewel in Pennsylvania's artistic crown.

SoMar Dance Works, while an independent company, operates in residence at Mercyhurst University, meaning its primary performance and rehearsal spaces are often associated with the university's facilities. The university's address is typically 501 East 38th Street, Erie, PA 16546, which is generally where their concerts like "Body Language" and "Sweet & Savory" are presented, often at Walker Recital Hall. This location is easily accessible for residents of Erie and the surrounding regions of Pennsylvania.

Mercyhurst University is situated in a well-established part of Erie, with clear road access. For those traveling by car, there are typically ample parking options available on campus, especially for events, which simplifies attendance for audience members. While the company's official contact address is listed as 3915 Page St, Erie, PA 16510, it's important for potential audience members and collaborators to note that performances are often held at the Mercyhurst University campus. This dual presence showcases their deep integration within the local academic and artistic community.

For those utilizing public transportation, local Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) bus routes serve the Mercyhurst University area, providing accessibility for students and attendees who rely on public transit. The combination of a recognized university campus as a primary venue and a dedicated administrative address ensures that SoMar Dance Works is both a prominent artistic entity and an accessible resource within the Pennsylvania landscape, inviting broader participation and appreciation for their work.

SoMar Dance Works offers a rich array of services and artistic contributions, primarily focusing on contemporary dance performance, creation, and education through its in-residence status at Mercyhurst University.

• Creation and Presentation of Original Contemporary Dance Works: At its core, SoMar Dance Works is dedicated to choreographing and performing new, original pieces. Their work is known for its "artistry, physicality, wit, and creativity," often exploring "interdisciplinary, multi-media" themes that range from the poignant to the preposterous. They produce at least two original concerts annually, showcasing their innovative vision.
• Professional Dance Performances: The company provides high-quality dance performances for the public, often at venues like Walker Recital Hall at Mercyhurst University. These concerts are frequently open to the public, sometimes free of charge, making professional dance accessible to the wider Erie community.
• Performing Opportunities for Dancers: SoMar Dance Works offers professional performing opportunities for its company members, extending beyond the opportunities available at Mercyhurst University. This is vital for developing and retaining dance talent within the region.
• Educational Engagement through Residency: Being in-residence at Mercyhurst University means Solveig and Mark Santillano, as faculty members, contribute significantly to dance education. They teach various subjects including Modern, Jazz, Tap, Musical Theatre Dance, Contemporary Partnering, Choreography, Dance Appreciation, Dance History, and Yoga Studies, directly influencing the next generation of dancers.
• Community and University Collaborations: SoMar Dance Works actively collaborates with other artistic and academic entities. They have performed in concert with Lake Erie Ballet and Dafmark Dance Theatre and contribute to Mercyhurst University's performance ensembles, including the Mercyhurst Dancers and Dance Outreach.
• Arts Advocacy and Social Commentary through Dance: Solveig Santillano is passionate about using her art for advocacy concerning issues of social injustices, and Mark Santillano's work often integrates social commentary. This means their performances often carry deeper meaning and contribute to important conversations within the community.
• Recipient of Grants and Fellowships: The company has consistently received grants from the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts (since 2007) and Solveig and Mark were awarded the inaugural Erie Arts & Culture Artist Fellowship, showcasing their recognized artistic merit and contributions.

SoMar Dance Works stands out with several key features and highlights that underscore its significance in the Pennsylvania arts landscape, particularly in Erie.

• Acclaimed Co-Artistic Directors with International Experience: Solveig and Mark Santillano are the driving force behind SoMar. Solveig is a Juilliard School of Dance graduate and performed with MOMIX, while Mark's credits include Pilobolus Dance Theatre and Broadway tours. Their combined international and professional experience ensures a high caliber of artistry and innovation in their choreography and performances.
• In-Residence at Mercyhurst University: This residency provides a stable base for the company, allowing them access to state-of-the-art facilities and fostering a symbiotic relationship with a leading academic dance program. It also means consistent, accessible performances for the Erie community.
• Commitment to Original, Interdisciplinary Choreography: SoMar is known for its fresh, innovative, and often multimedia works that blend dance with film, music, and storytelling. Their productions, such as "Body Language" and "Sweet & Savory," are described as "interdisciplinary, multi-media, pan-genre dance event," keeping their performances dynamic and thought-provoking.
• Socially Conscious and Relevant Art: The Santillanos use their platform to explore the "human condition" and engage in "advocacy concerning issues of social injustices." This commitment to creating art with meaning and relevance sets SoMar apart, making their performances not just entertaining but also impactful. For instance, their work "The Sneetches" (based on Dr. Seuss) brings relevant social commentary to life through dance.
• Consistent Performance History and Recognition: Since 1999, SoMar Dance Works has consistently premiered original works, performed at various festivals nationally and internationally (including Sweden and Austria), and received numerous grants. This long-standing track record speaks to their artistic endurance and recognized excellence.
• Strong Artistic Collaborations: Their history of performing with other prominent local arts organizations like Lake Erie Ballet and Dafmark Dance Theatre demonstrates their collaborative spirit and integral role within Erie's broader cultural ecosystem, enriching the collective arts scene.

For inquiries about performances, collaborations, or general information regarding SoMar Dance Works, you can reach out using the following contact details:

Administrative Address: 3915 Page St, Erie, PA 16510, USA

Phone: (814) 824-2176

Mobile Phone: +1 814-824-2176

Email: info@somardanceworks.com

Their website also serves as an excellent resource for detailed information on upcoming performances, company history, and the vision of Solveig and Mark Santillano.

For us Pennsylvanians, particularly those in the Erie area, SoMar Dance Works stands as an incredibly suitable and invaluable local resource for experiencing and engaging with high-quality contemporary dance. Its in-residence status at Mercyhurst University makes world-class performances and innovative choreography readily accessible right in our community, often free of charge, which is a significant benefit for local arts enthusiasts and families. The expertise of Solveig and Mark Santillano, with their international performance backgrounds, ensures that we are witnessing dance of the highest caliber without having to travel far.

Beyond the captivating performances, SoMar Dance Works' commitment to creating "thought-provoking" and socially relevant art resonates deeply. In a dynamic region like ours, having artistic organizations that encourage reflection and discussion through creative expression enriches the cultural dialogue and contributes to a more vibrant community. Their integration with Mercyhurst University's dance program also means they play a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of dancers and educators within Pennsylvania. By supporting SoMar Dance Works, locals are not only enjoying exceptional artistic experiences but also investing in the continued growth and vitality of the performing arts right here in our own backyard, ensuring that innovative and meaningful dance continues to thrive in Erie.

You can find out more about SoMar Dance Works and their performances in this video: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YrgSk30XDcU)

SoMar Dance Works

3915 Page St, Erie, PA 16510, USA