The Conservatory of Performing Arts at Point Park invites students to experience the vibrant energy of its Fall Dance Concert, a highlight of the season’s artistic lineup. The show presents the works of four renowned choreographers. Two of those choreographers are brothers Kevin and Marcel Wilson. 

The Wilson brothers are distinguished dancers and choreographers. They have an extended list of performance repertoire. Both Kevin and Marcel have performed with artists such as Madonna, Beyonce, Whitney Houston and many others. The brothers have also toured the world with Janet Jackson, Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera. Outside of their commercial dance work, they have also performed in many Broadway shows, including “The Lion King,” “Guys and Dolls” and “42nd Street.” Lastly, the Wilson brothers have made various film and TV appearances, such as in “Dream Girls” and “A Christmas Carol.” 

Aside from their time performing, Kevin and Marcel Wilson are award-winning choreographers. Kevin can be found choreographing for the hit TV show “So You Think You Can Dance,” and assisting in choreography for “Dancing with the Stars.” Meanwhile Marcel has choreographed for the Emmy-award-winning, “Wayne Brady Show,” which also won the American Choreography Award for Best Choreography. They both have made contributions as associate choreographers on many projects, working with artists such as Cher and Mariah Carey.  

It is evident that the Wilson Brothers are amazing creators. Their piece in the Fall Dance Concert at the Pittsburgh Playhouse will certainly live up to these standards. The rehearsal process began on Sept. 5. After only ten days, the Wilson brothers left Pittsburgh on their next journey. Rehearsals have since been directed by Assistant Professor and Jazz Unit Director Kiki Lukas.   

While only at Point Park for a short time, the Wilson brothers worked quickly to make an impact with this piece. This was partially achieved through their unique casting process. A total of 39 performers were initially cast for the piece, but this group has since been split up into two casts. Cast “A” and Cast “B” will perform the same routine during two different showtimes. All male-identifying dancers will perform in both shows. Eddie Toby, a freshman dance major, is excited to make his Point Park debut with this piece in both casts “A” and “B.”  

 “I think people should come see the piece because it will bring people a lot of joy to see due to the energy, movement quality, and music,” said Toby. “It will be fun to follow a storyline that a lot of people can relate to.”  

Lucy West, junior dance major and another performer, is one of the four featured leads in the piece. West, Madison Manning, Cameron Redman and Bronson Dahmer are presented as the couples in the two casts.   

“This experience has been really enjoyable, it is a good balance of professionalism and just a fun time,” said West. “It was really good getting to watch both Kevin and Marcel work together and see their dynamic.”      

The piece, titled “Love and Light,” is approximately 15 minutes’ worth of intricate jazz funk movements. The choreography represents the iconic Wilson brother style: an impressive fusion of jazz, hip hop, contemporary and musical theater.  

The story portrayed throughout “Love and Light” is a love story. The first part is about a couple falling in love in bustling New York City. It has a very pedestrian and fast-paced feel. Eventually, the ups and downs of a relationship occur. At some points, an all-female-identifying number occurs, where the females of the cast reclaim their worth. Eventually, the couple will find their way back to each other and fall in love. The vibes of the piece are energetic and magnetic. 

The brilliant usage of costumes, props and lighting plays a large role in this piece. Props such as roses, hand lights and chairs are used throughout. The costumes represent the love story as time passes and environments change. From bright, colorful fashion statements to business sleek, this piece visually offers it all. The costumes were designed by Aimee Coleman. 

“Love and Light” by Kevin and Marcel Wilson will be performed in the Fall Dance Concert at the Pittsburgh Playhouse. The dates of the performances are between Oct. 9 and 10.