Western Oregon University’s Rainbow Dance Theatre Impresses with Innovative Performances
MONMOUTH, Ore. – Rainbow Dance Theatre, a professional dance company co-directed by Western Oregon University’s (WOU) Dance Professor Darryl Thomas and Valerie Bergman, is creating waves in the Polk County arts scene. Notable for incorporating cutting-edge technology into their performances, the company aims to inspire curiosity in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) through world-class choreography.
Thomas emphasized the importance of the company for WOU dance majors and alumni, stating, “Rainbow Dance Theatre provides an unparalleled bridge between academic training and the real demands of professional performance.” The company offers hands-on internships, job opportunities, and exposure to professional expectations, enabling emerging dancers to refine their skills and build confidence, all while contributing to the Monmouth community.
The latest performance, “The Princess and the Wind,” showcased exceptional talent, featuring WOU alumni Madison Malveaux and Moises Martinez Trejo, alongside current dance majors Christine Anders and Olivia Robbins. Audiences enjoyed a dynamic array of performances, including a mesmerizing duet on hoverboards and an aerial solo on Lyra, complemented by stunning LED costumes and live musical accompaniment from the Salem Symphonic Winds.
Christine Anders, a business and dance major, praised her involvement with the company, highlighting her exposure to diverse dance styles and collaborative skills. “Being part of Rainbow Dance Theatre encourages us to take creative risks," she remarked, illustrating how the experience is beneficial not only in dance but also in her future professional endeavors.
A special excerpt from “The Princess and the Wind” will be featured at WOU’s Annual Spring Dance Concert from May 8 to 10, promising to be a highlight of the university’s artistic offerings.
About Western Oregon University
Established in 1856, WOU is the oldest public university in Oregon, serving approximately 4,000 students with a focus on a nurturing, student-centered educational environment.
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