The Department of Theatre’s dance showcase, One Night Only, will premiere on Saturday.

One Night Only will featuring the new theatre dance track. Styles performed will include ballet, tap, jazz, musical theater, hip-hop and more.

“This show is special to me because it showcases how far we have come as a department,”said Lauren McDonald, a sophomore dance major from Houston. “Dance is a gift that allows us to express feelings or truths that are far too great to be confined by words. Psalm 149:3 says, ‘Let them praise his name with dancing and make music to him on timbrel and harp.’ I am so thankful to be a part of a program that supports and encourages the freedom of expression and praise through dance.”

Lily Balogh, artist in residence, choreographed 10 of the 13 numbers. The remainder of the performance numbers were choreographed by participating students.

“I tried to cast the show in such a way that the performers would find rich meaning in their work; so that they may reach beneath the technical structure of the dance to uncover layers of emotion and storytelling,” Balogh said. “As athletic as dance is, it is also art, and I wanted them to grow not only as technicians, but artists as well.”

Balogh said students participating in One Night Only began preparation in October.

“I have loved this rehearsal process,” McDonald said. “Long hours spent working hard, creating and laughing. We have so many inside jokes and really awesome break throughs. Lily is a wonderful teacher in that she encourages us to create and collaborate along with her.”

“I’m so grateful we can have this track and that I get to teach such talented, hungry students who strive to be better dancers, performers and people each day,” Balogh said.

The showcase will take place Dec. 8 at 7:30 p.m. in Fulks Theatre, located inside the Williams Performing Arts Center. A dessert reception will follow the performance.

To purchase tickets, call (325) 674-ARTS or go to acu.edu/theatre.