TAMIU's 'A Night of Cabaret' Bows in Concert Friday, Nov. 22

For the past 20 years, Texas A&M International University assistant professor of dance Bede Leyendecker's gentle hands have shown countless dancers the steps to grace.

But during the University's 2002 Fall Dance Concert, it will be Leyendecker's students who will delight her eyes with choreographical wonders they have learned from their beloved teacher with a presentation themed, "A Night of Cabaret."

The event, which marks TAMIU's 9th formal dance concert, is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 22 at 8 p.m. in the Kinesiology/Convocation Building and will feature the TAMIU Dance Performance Troupe and the TAMIU Classical Spanish Ballet. The event is free of charge and open to the public.

A 'Night of Cabaret' will showcase student artistic dance talent to a variety of songs ranging from Albita's "Fiesta Pa' Los Rumberos" and La Susi's "Tangos de Ole!" to Sondheim's "Send In the Clouds" and the soundtrack to the hit move "Moulin Rouge."

"I am blessed to have over 50 talented young men and women who have come together as a family to present this beautiful program," Leyendecker said, " 'A Night of Cabaret' will keep our audience in awe. What a wonderful group of students. Their energy is un-ending."

Guest artists will include the TAMIU Guitar Ensemble, the Gonzalez Middle School Dance Team and the LBJ High School Dance Team.

A special salsa presentation is also planned and the TAMIU Guitar Ensemble will join the Classical Spanish Ballet in a rendition of the song, "Alegrias."

Leyendecker said the event's program will be dynamic.

"In the past four years, we have been fortunate to draw some remarkable performers from around the area," Leyendecker said, "The students are exceptionally talented. We have a dynamite show planned with outstanding performers. It is truly an event that you won't want to miss."

Leyendecker also thanked event supporters.

"We are grateful to the efforts of the City of Laredo, Webb County, Women's City Club and The Texas Commission on the Arts for their support of our program," she said.

For further information, please contact Leyendecker at 326-2625, e-mail bleyendecker@tamiu.edu or visit offices in Pellegrino Hall, room 215C.

University office hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu