Spring dance presentation explores ‘the shadow self’

Cornell dance students will present "Penumbra: 2026 Annual Spring Dance Presenting Series," a performance of original dance work hosted by the Department of Performing and Media Arts (PMA) in the College of Arts & Sciences, March 20 and 21 at 7:30 p.m. in the Class of '56 Flexible Theatre, Schwartz Center for the Performing Arts.

"Penumbra," is comprised of two dance pieces titled "seemingly perfect, radiant" by faculty member Danielle Russo, assistant professor of the practice in performing and media arts (A&S); and "Society" by guest choreographer Babatunji Johnson, whose work blends hip hop, ballet, breaking and contemporary dance.

"Penumbra refers to the light at the edge of shadow," Russo said. "Conceptually, this anchors the two works of the evening, both of which delve into the shadow self, specifically during an era marked by fear, surveillance and uncertainty. How do we navigate and protect ourselves? What layers and dimensions of ourselves do we reveal, and how do we safeguard our vulnerabilities without losing them?"

Read the full story on the College of Arts and Sciences website.