Helanius J. Wilkins, the Metro D.C. Dance Award Honoree for Best Emerging Choreographer of 2001 will present Non-Stop, a quintet based on the concept of ritual as meditation, energy and repetition.

The Dance Project will also showcase a new work by critically acclaimed choreographer, Vladimir Angelov. Mr. Angelov, one of D.C.’s most prolific choreographers, presents, Tango Two, a romantic tango ballet danced as a solo.

Other highlights include, Nejla Yatkin’s Relations, a whimsical look at the Mars and Venus aspects of male/female relationships, and Grace, choreographed by Vanessa Williamson Edwards, Artistic Director of Jam Crew. Grace is a poignant modern/jazz fusion piece that stretches the repertoire of one D.C.’s hottest hip hop companies.

A final offering includes a new work by co-choreographers Sophie Mitrisin and Sarah Scott, company members of CrossCurrents Dance Company, entitled, Touch. This exquisitely performed work explores elements of contact, distance and closeness of individuals physically and emotionally.

Both shows on Saturday and Sunday will be followed by a post-performance discussion with the choreographers.

The Joy of Motion Dance Project, currently presented twice a year, provides an opportunity for developing dance artists to present their works for the first time, as well as provide an opportunity for audiences to see what is new and developing in the D.C. dance community. Works are selected by audition only and reviewed and judged by a panel of select dance educators, performers, choreographers and administrators.

Since its inception in 1993, The Joy of Motion Dance Project has provided an initial performance venue for over 200 D.C. dance artists. By nature, an eclectic blend of dance, the Joy of Motion Dance Project always presents works that delight, intrigue and entertain audiences.