Original Article by Justine Sutton, Noozhawk Contributor | Published on 05.13.2010
http://www.noozhawk.com/arts/article/051310_review_dance_tour_nourishes_body_and_soul

A small audience at Center Stage Theater on Tuesday night was fortunate enough to witness a stunning evening of professional-level dance by five young women who can best be described as gifted, creative and very generous. Not only do they give of their talented and beautiful dancing selves onstage, but the members of Oregon-based Shiroun Dance Company are raising money with a West Coast tour, titled "Nourish Through Movement," to fight hunger worldwide.

Associated with the Nu Skin cosmetic company, Shiroun (scramble it a bit and it spells "nourish") has the expenses of its tour underwritten so that all proceeds from each $22 ticket go to international aid organizations distributing VitaMeal packs to undernourished children. Each pack feeds a child one balanced, nutritious meal per day for a month.

The cause is admirable, but can they dance? Holy Capezio, can they ever! Add to the above adjectives poised, inventive, playful and bursting with energy. These five young women danced an evening-long program of demanding pieces with casual grace and fierce intensity. All have performed professionally, and most have taught dance.

Co-artistic directors Kristina Walker and Kymberly Kellems (who also dances in the company) choreographed 10 out of the 11 numbers in the show, with collaboration from the dancers on some, and the final one is by company member Jackie Nowicki.