Dance, Dance, Dance

The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and May in Santa Barbara is bursting with life. But the springtime celebration isn’t limited to the outdoors, thanks to three feel-good-down-to-your-toes dance performances. After a morning at the Farmers Market or the Sunday art walk, you can spend the later hours of the day soaking up the artistry and energy of young performers or reveling in the sultry rhythms of flamenco and tango. Read on below for details.

1] On the Verge: This annual Santa Barbara Dance Alliance show brings together talented teenage choreographers for an intensive period of work, culminating in an evening-length show. This year’s On the Verge includes dances by no less than 21 young artists, each of whom has been mentored by an adult professional. The styles of their dances range from ballet to hip-hop, salsa to jazz. In addition to creating and staging original dances, the participants learn about music, costumes, lighting, and marketing. On the Verge takes place at the Marjorie Luke Theatre (721 E. Cota St.) on Saturday, May 22, at 7 p.m. To learn more, call 966-6950 or visit sbdancealliance.org.

2] Miguel and His Cell: A 13-year-old kid who can’t tear himself away from his cell phone wakes up one morning to find his parents have left him. That’s the premise of Miguel and His Cell, the Santa Barbara Dance Institute’s end-of-year dance and theater production. The show stars more than 300 students from regional elementary and junior high schools. Together, they will bring to life Miguel’s journey from a sullen teenager to an active participant in a vibrant community. “If you don’t leave the theater with a deep sense of joy,” organizers claim, “we will happily refund your ticket!” Now that’s an unbeatable deal. The show takes place at the Marjorie Luke Theatre on Sunday, May 23, at 3 p.m. For tickets, call 963-0761 or visit lobero.com.

3] Flamenco Loves Tango: As the sun goes down on the weekend, there’s one last chance for dance, and what better way to finish things off than with the sizzle of Latin movement and music? In Flamenco Loves Tango, two cultures collide, and sparks fly. Expect the sexy sizzle of Argentine tango and the drama and passion of Spanish dance. Flamenco Loves Tango takes place at the Lobero Theatre (33 E. Canon Perdidio St.) on Sunday, May 23, at 7 p.m. Call 963-0761 or visit lobero.com.