Known for her creative and daring works of modern dance, choreographer Maida Withers’ latest work, Thresholds Crossed, is performed by a collection of U.S. and Russian dancers. Colored by the implied humor of Cold War era propaganda art, the work can be described as a unique fusion of dance, art, and political statement. It delves into the human rights issues that link, and belong to, the United States and Russia. A multi-media performance, it combines dance with electronic music by Steven Hilmy, and experimental vocals/cello music by Audrey Chen, along with a visual installation that features, among others, images of gulags.

Withers is no stranger to the combination of politics and art. As noted on her web site, Withers was part of the of the 60s dance “revolution” in America that resulted in post-modernism. Her own style of dance has been well-regarded as innovative, bold and energetic, not afraid to conquer innovative movements or conjure up interesting notions in the audience. Withers and her Washington-based Dance Construction Company, which is celebrating its 30th Anniversary with Thresholds Crossed, received the 2005 D.C. Mayor’s Arts Award for Excellence in an Artistic Discipline. Being involved in countless projects and on numerous boards, Withers has made a huge impression on both the Washington and national dance scene.