The University of Iowa Department of Dance and the International Writing Program came together to create Words Dance. The show  opened for one night only  at Space Place Theater on Friday, Nov. 1, 2019.  Five short pieces showcased University of Iowa dancers performing to audio of Iowa writers reading poetry and other written work, including some original pieces,  in addition to music and sound effects. Many of the writers attended the dress rehearsal to watch the run-through. After performing,  dancers embraced the writers who had worked with them to create the final product. Madara Gruntmane, who wrote, danced, and played piano for the show, summed up the best part of the process by saying, “I’m most excited about the collaboration.”

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Jenna Galligan

Movement artists Michael Landez and Jessie Madden perform “Tennessee Waltz” during a dress rehearsal of Words Dance at Space Place Theater on Friday, Nov. 1, 2019. International Writing Program resident CHAN Lai-kuen narrated portions of the piece.