dugOdug productions is thrilled to announce that they have been selected to perform in the 2005 Minnesota Fringe Festival. Appearing August 10 - 14, 2005 at Minneapolis' Southern Theatre.

Veuve Noire dugOdug productions Choreographed by: Mackie & Severt Dancers: Doug Mackie & Cindy Severt Music Composed by: Michael Gilbertson Performed by: Michael Gilbertson - Piano David Patterson - Cello Costumes & Set by: Mackie & Severt Lighting & Tech by: Indiana & Jones La Veuve Noire presented a challenge to Cindy and myself to create a dance unlike any we had done before. Exploring aerial work, floor work, contact improv, and lots of gear and hardware has made this piece a constant discovery of what dance can be for us now. I sought out an emerging young composer to create an original score for two instruments, reflecting the two dancers. This work is Michael's first composition for dance, and was developed out of our dialogues about the imaginary world Cindy and I were creating. Based the legacy of the black widow spider, La Veuve Noire explores the suspended sensation of the predator/prey relationship while putting a new spin on the age-old question, "Who's on top?" At 16, Michael Gilbertson is already an award-winning pianist and composer from Dubuque, Iowa who is an inspiration to collaborate with, and to watch perform. Gilbertson's music has been performed by ensembles such as the Dubuque Symphony Orchestra, the Dubuque Chorale, Red Cedar Chamber Music, and the Cleveland Institute of Music. Michael has also received numerous awards as a pianist, winning IMTA regional piano competitions in 2002 and 2004 and also placing first in the 2004 Dubuque Youth Symphony Concerto Competition. A junior in high school, Michael is also principal violist of the Dubuque Youth Symphony. His passion, skill, and intensity exceed his years. This project is the beginning of a larger Dance Theatre event which will premiere at the newly remodeled Grand Opera Theatre in Dubuque, Iowa in 2006.