A selected collection of reviews, articles, and news segments on Nova Linea Contemporary Dance.
In The Press
Nova Linea Dance Company Respects Despair in "some wounds never heal"
John Schneider, Shepherd Express (November 2024)
In this review, “some wounds never heal” is praised for its emotionally resonant exploration of grief, highlighted by Gracie Plath’s compelling performance and Jared Baker’s evocative choreography.
“This show was accessible enough to warrant screams of joy from the youngsters at the curtain call, and clear-yet-complex enough to constantly engage this 76-year old’s interpretive faculties.”
“The performances were all superb, most impressively that of Senior Company Artist Gracie Plath in the role of the grief-stricken human, the constant center of this 90-minute work.”
“I was held fast by the variety of movements Baker and the dancers found to represent these feelings and interactions, and by the truths they managed to convey.”
Nova Linea on WISN 12 News!
WISN12 (November 2024)
Artistic Director Jared Baker appears on WISN12 News on November 8th, 2024 to discuss our upcoming performance of “some wounds never heal”
Nova Linea Contemporary Dance Inspires with ‘Perspectives’
John Schneider, Shepherd Express (February 2024)
This review highlights “Perspectives”, praising its powerful, full-bodied choreography and intimate exploration of human connection, while showcasing the company’s dynamic, fast-paced style and innovative staging.
“It was as if they made the music visible.”
“I slept better than usual that night because of the joy I took in the performance.”
“I felt I was meeting the dancers as the people they are.”
Jared Baker, Choreographer/Artistic Director
John Schneider, MKE Lifestyle (September 2023)
This article discusses the mission and origins of Nova Linea, emphasizing the company’s goal to make professional dance accessible to a wider audience, including those unfamiliar with dance, while also connecting young dancers to professional opportunities.
“I’m trying to make a company that’s also for people that don’t know dance.” — Jared Baker, Artistic Director
“I’m very invested in storytelling. I create a storyboard for every work. What is this journey that these dancers are going on, and what’s the resolution?” — Jared Baker, Artistic Director
“I’m going to try to push boundaries, but I want to do that in a way that’s accessible for the average person to watch.” — Jared Baker
Nova Linea Contemporary Dance hopes to bring the power of performance back to Waukesha
Carole Meekins, TMJ4 (December 2021)
This video highlights Nova Linea’s mission to connect with audiences through emotionally impactful performances, showcasing the personal stories of Artistic Director Jared Baker and dancers Mia Shindle, Sebastian Martinez, and Grace Plath, who emphasize the power of dance to inspire and create a lasting legacy in the Midwest.
“Art is the best way to connect to people and connect back to our humanity. I think that’s definitely needed right now.” — Jared Baker, Artistic Director
“Being an artist is not just about creating work, it’s more for me about impacting people.” — Mia Shindle
“I think it’s like a really good feeling to know that I’m able to impact something much bigger than me and something that is up and coming, something that is going to be there when I’m no longer here.” — Sebastian Martinez