By Lookout Staff

April 17, 2026 -- Santa Monica College's Synapse Contemporary Dance Theater will showcase new works next month that evoke the forces that surround us.

The performances take place on Saturday, May 2, and Sunday, May 3 at 7:30 p.m. in The Eli & Edythe Broad Stage at the SMC Performing Arts Center at Santa Monica Boulevard and 11th Street.

SMC Synapse Contemporary Dance Theater dancers Gui Rosa and Chloe Hess. Photo by Amy Williams.

The new works by award-winning faculty artists, professional guest artists and student choreographers range in styles that include Postmodern, Dance Theater, Jazz, Hip Hop and Contemporary Ballet.

The concert features a performance of “Last Train,” an ensemble Jazz dance by guest artist Malia Baker "that is an ode to public transportation and public life" and a special appearance by Kybele Dance Theater.

Guest artist João Ducci will present the Contemporary dance “tidal treasures,” which offers "an abstract exploration of the undulating patterns of water."

“Driven,” an ensemble dance by faculty choreographer Karen McDonald, "explores the invisible forces that move us forward in life, with the dancers embodying the struggle between obstacles and determination."

"Feelings of dissonance, malfunction, and rigidity" are explored in student choreographer Chai Nwagbara's abstract Contemporary work “Terminal Escape.”

While faculty choreographer Angela Jordan's “Ladies in Red” is a "high-energy, fast-paced dance fusion that features 18 cast members."

Also on the bill is a a Hip Hop dance work by three student choreographers -- Maite Garcia, Kiari Lee Montgomery and Liz Perez -- "that portrays how community feels in motion" as the dancers "move with their own style, yet are united by rhythm and shared joy."

Founded more than 50 years ago, the Synapse Contemporary Dance Theater has toured extensively and performed at schools, festivals and special events throughout California and Mexico.

The student ensemble has also performed in Beijing, China; Bracciano, Italy; Santiago, Chile; Lloret de Mar, Spain, and Paris, France.

Advance tickets are $20 for general admission and can be purchased online at smc.edu/tickets or by calling 310-434-3005. They can also be purchased for $23 on the day of the performance at The Broad Stage Box Office.

A modest service charge applies. Seating is strictly on a first-arrival basis. All performances subject to change or cancellation without notice.

For more information visit smc.edu/dance or by call 310-434-8763.