2018 marks the 15-year anniversary since Mosaic Dance Theater Company’s (MDTC) inaugural performance with a special a concert featuring signature works from the Company’s repertory of dance and folklore from the Mediterranean region -- North Africa, the Middle East, and southern Europe. The program, presented in association with Mount St. Dominic Academy, will be presented in 2 performances, free of charge to the general public, on December 1, 2018 at 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm at the Doris M. Byrne Performing Arts Center at Mount St. Dominic Academy, 3 Ryerson Avenue, Caldwell, NJ  07006.

Among the works in the concert are:

“Raks al-Sai’idi,” a joyous folkloric dance of Upper Egypt, featuring sagat (finger cymbals) and assaya (cane).  One of MDTC’s signature dance works.
“Enheduanna” an excerpt from “Fo(u)r Women,” a theatrical multi-media work celebrating the life of this first non-anonymous author of the ancient Mesopotamian civilization of Sumer.
 “La Lettera d’Isabella,” an original scenario for the commedia dell’arte, portrayed through movement and dance to an underscore of traditional Italian folk music. .

Performing in the concert are Mosaic Company dancers Samara Adell, Morgiana Celeste Varricchio, Nina Brewton, Kendra Dushac McCarthy, and guest dancers Heather Panikkar, Carlos Fittante, Allan McCormick, Danielle Karabos, and Kaitlin Hines.

This program is made possible in part by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts and administered by the Essex County division of Cultural and Historic Affairs.

About Mosaic Dance Theater Company

Mosaic Dance Theater Company (MDTC) is dedicated to the dance and folkloric traditions of the Mediterranean — the Middle East, North Africa, Turkey, Greece, Italy, and Spain — creating dance, theater, and educational programs which celebrate the rich diversity of cultures of this region. The dances and music, the stories and myths, and the history and legends of this fascinating area form the wellspring of inspiration for MDTC’s creative vision. 

Founded in 2003 by Producing Artistic Director Morgiana Celeste Varricchio, MDTC evolved out of dance and theater productions originally developed by Ms. Varricchio which began touring in 1992 and are now a part of MDTC’s repertory. Samara Adell, MDTC’s Choreographer and Artistic Director for Dance, began her collaboration with Ms. Varricchio in 2000, and since the Company’s inception, it has premiered its original dance works to critical acclaim. Touring nationally to performing arts venues, universities, and educational institutions, MDTC is known for its artistry and authenticity, not only in creating the original works that comprise its repertory, but also in faithfully researching their origins to ensure cultural integrity.  The Company has been presented under the auspices of Lincoln Center’s Meet The Artist Program, Young Audiences of New Jersey/Eastern Pennsylvania, Arts Horizons, and is on the roster of Arts-in-Education artists for Hartford Performs and Morris Arts.  MDTC is the recipient of the 2013 Sunshine Award for its contribution to the performing arts, recognized by NARAS (National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences) and the United Nations. 

In a world engulfed by popular culture, MDTC embraces the historical treasures of the past, the ways of tradition, and the sensibilities of the present in its goal to celebrate the remarkable varieties and similarities of the Mediterranean cultures.  MDTC is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization based in Essex County, N.J.

About Mount St. Dominic Academy

Mount St. Dominic Academy, established by the Sisters of St. Dominic of Caldwell in 1892, is a Catholic, college preparatory school for young women, dedicated to the education of young women from a variety of ethnic, religious and economic backgrounds. The Mount community is committed to seeking the Truth in all aspects of life. The students are able to realize their individual gifts and talents in an atmosphere that fosters academic excellence, respect for diversity, appreciation for the gifts of creation, and moral integrity.