Part of the Series for Spiritual Architecture & Sacred Space
“Refractions of Being” from Leverage Dance Theater Premieres May 2025 in St. Louis
ST. LOUIS, MO – Leverage Dance Theater proudly presents the premiere of Refractions of Being, an exploration of spirituality through space, movement, music, and storytelling. The performances will take place on May 2, 3, 9, and 10 at 7:30 PM at Hope United Church of Christ in St. Louis.
Refractions of Being is the fourth production in a series of Dances for Spiritual Architecture and Sacred Space. The series explores the potential of both grand and intimate spaces to evoke a visceral and personal response that extends beyond the physical realm. This series bids audiences to explore how the abstraction of art can elicit reflection and illumination bypassing preconceptions, ideologies, dogmas and assumptions.
This production weaves together seven choreographed pieces, delving into themes of grief, resilience, joy, community, and unity. Inspired by the magnificence of sacred sites like Europe’s cathedrals, the Lotus Temple in New Delhi, and Machu Picchu in Peru, Refractions of Being also draws on the quiet serenity found in smaller spaces like ashrams and chapels or the overwhelming beauty of nature.
Though St. Louis may lack proximity to sites of such extraordinary significance or symbolic power, this series seeks to bridge that gap. Leverage Artistic Director, Diana Barrios says, "through the language of dance, light, and sound, we hope to enhance the spiritual resonance of the space and invite viewers to participate in a shared and embodied ‘experience’ of spiritual reflection."
This production encourages contemplation on universal themes of belonging, spirituality, and interconnectedness while transcending the limitations of language or inadequacy of words. It is an invitation to witness and connect with the deeper currents of life that unite us all.
Refractions of Being is a chance to experience the beauty, creativity, and universality of dance, exploring the depths of our shared human experiences and connection to something beyond the ordinary.
Ticket Information
Tickets from $10 to $35 at tickets.leveragedancetheater.org or the door (pending availability). Performances on May 2nd, 3rd, 9th and 10th at 7:30pm at Hope United Church of Christ in St. Louis, MO 63109.
Accessibility
The event is fully accessible with additional accessibility support available upon request. Patrons with special needs are encouraged to select the appropriate support option when purchasing tickets. For additional information and assistance, contact shows@lv-dt.org.
About Leverage Dance Theater
Leverage has been producing site-specific immersive performances for St. Louis audiences since 2012. Our work springs from a creative practice rooted in changing perspectives to expand possibilities. Our goal is to inspire people to experience how little one’s perspective needs to shift for the world to open up.
Leverage Dance Theater is a contemporary modern dance company committed to making dance accessible to the St. Louis community. Through innovative performances and community outreach, Leverage fosters local talent while building programs that inspire and elevate.
Acknowledgements
We gratefully acknowledge the support of the Missouri Arts Council (a state agency), the Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis, Hope United Church of Christ, Sports Medicine and Training Center, Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Intersect Arts Center, and WJL Properties, which make our work possible.
[“Refractions of Being” | May 2, 3, 9, and 10 | Hope United Church of Christ | St. Louis, MO]