Luna Negra Dance Theater isn’t really new to Cleveland. The Chicago company performed here three years ago, but artistic director Eduardo Vilaro calls tonight’s performance at Playhouse Square an introduction to the troupe… and to contemporary Latin dance. “We try to speak a little more to the future,” he says. “We don’t want to be a reflection of the past or some stereotype. I want people to see that we’ve fused and we’ve expanded.” For Luna Negra, that means no flamenco, tango, or salsa — at least not in their purest forms. When the traditional dances turn up, expect to see them integrated with classical ballet, modern dance, and Afro-Caribbean styles. “There’s so much great stuff out there,” says Vilaro. “And it’s just beautiful.”
Sat., Feb. 3, 8 p.m.

This article appears in Jan 31 – Feb 6, 2007.