KENNESAW, Ga. | Aug 13, 2025

Double Exposure brings two bold new works to the stage, created during the prestigious Eleo Pomare–Glenn Conner Choreographic Residency.

Kennesaw State University’s Department of Dance is kicking off its 20th anniversary season with the world premieres of two original works by nationally acclaimed choreographers Gianna Burright and Leandro Damasco, created during the department’s prestigious Eleo Pomare–Glenn Conner Choreographic Residency. 

“This residency is central to the department’s artistic identity,” said Marsha Barsky, chair and professor of the Department of Dance. “It allows us to consistently present bold, contemporary work while attracting choreographers who help shape our students’ artistic voices. It positions KSU Dance as a national center for creative innovation in dance.” 

Double Exposure runs Aug. 21-23 at the KSU Dance Theater. This year’s choreographers, Gianna Burright and Leandro Damasco, bring distinct visions to the program. Burright, a 2024 Baryshnikov Arts Center Artist in Residence and Jacob’s Pillow Fellow, is known for emotionally nuanced, surreal choreography, and has presented in 15 countries. Damasco, a former resident choreographer with DIAVOLO and MFA graduate of UC Irvine, blends technical rigor with cinematic storytelling, with work showcased internationally and on “America’s Got Talent.” 

The performance will showcase the choreographers’ contrasting styles. Burright’s piece explores themes of curiosity, childhood memory and the female experience, inspired by fairy tales and nature. She invites the audience to “To experience the power of seeing young women supporting each other and connecting with the earth.”

Damasco’s work is rooted in personal reflection and emotional depth, inspired by a love letter and the question: “What would you do if tomorrow were your last day?” Featuring a visual countdown, the piece explores time, regret and human connection.

Both choreographers emphasized the collaborative nature of the residency. Burright described her process as “world-building,” coaching dancers to embody characters within a carefully crafted environment. Damasco invited dancers to share personal reflections, weaving their voices into the choreography. “I wanted to make sure the piece was theirs — not just mine,” he said.

The residency was made possible through generous support from the Eleo Pomare/Glenn Conner Trust, which also funds student scholarships. This support removes financial barriers and connects students with renowned artists, opening doors to future opportunities. Double Exposure stands as an example of how donor and grant funding enrich student experiences and strengthens the arts at KSU and connects this Metro Atlanta community with industry-leading instructional models, collaboration and performance.

As the first performance of the department’s 20th anniversary season, Double Exposure marks a milestone in KSU Dance’s legacy. “It feels special to be a small part of the 20 years of magic-making that has happened here,” Burright said. “Programs like this are what we need more of in higher education: to support the dance ecosystem and help students transition into the professional world.”

With Double Exposure launching the 20th anniversary season of KSU Dance, the program celebrates two decades of bold artistry and looks ahead to inspiring the next generation of choreographers and performers. Get your tickets here. 

--Brooke Marier