College of Fine Arts and Communications Archives - BYU College of Fine Arts and Communications

Q&A with Megan Sanborn Jones

Veronica Anderson — Wed, 16 Mar 2022 18:19:45 +0000

My go-to BYU Creamery ice cream flavor is… Pralines and Caramel. Three things that are always found in my refrigerator are… cheese, cheese and more cheese. The Joneses love cheese — fresh, aged, soft rind, semi-soft, blue — we love them all. One item on my bucket list is… to see the “Oberammergau Passion Play.” It only runs every 10 years and tells the entire story of Jesus’s life in a six-hour play. In German. Which I don’t speak. My family doesn’t speak it either, so it shows how much they love me that they are willing to come with me to see it! Read the full interview here.

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Construction Progresses on New Music Building

admin — Mon, 14 Mar 2022 16:45:13 +0000

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The Art of Religion: Curator of Religious Art Ashlee Whitaker Shares How Religion Looks Behind the Frame

Capri Baker — Thu, 03 Mar 2022 19:46:18 +0000

Ashlee Whitaker paints the picture of how religious art works and spirituality coincide With over a decade of experience under her belt, curator of religious art Ashlee Whitaker will share her experiences and thoughts at the college Faith + Works Lecture Series. On March 10, she will speak on “The Things of a Soul: Art as Sacred/Spiritual Text,” explaining how she has accessed spirituality, empathy and understanding through art. Whitaker graduated from BYU summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in art history and a master’s degree in art history & curatorial studies and is the recipient of BYU’s Graduate Research Award. She was an intern at BYU’s Museum of Art and the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery in Washington D.C. and later began working at the Springville Museum of Art in Springville, Utah after receiving her graduate degree in 2008. Outside of her practice, Whitaker enjoys numerous personal interests. When she is not curating, she may be found running, hiking, doing “nerdy history stuff,” exploring antique shops, road tripping or playing with her dog Winslow.

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Faith + Works Lecture Series: Professor Kris Boyle Shares How to Harness Heavenly Help

Capri Baker — Wed, 02 Mar 2022 20:50:28 +0000

Kris Boyle walked students and faculty through a few of life’s crucial moments he has faced and how the Lord has been alongside him through it all Third-generation BYU cougar Kris Boyle recently shared what “Harnessing the Power of the Lord in Our Educational Journey” has meant to him at the college Faith + Works Lecture Series on February 3. Boyle looked back on the challenges and opportunities life offered him, which led to his appreciation for the scripture in Doctrine and Covenants 101:16. This verse contains the two-word command to “be still,” a “phrase [that] has stuck with [him] first as a student, then as a journalist and now as an educator.” Boyle found that by encompassing the attributes of faith, action, sacrifice and love, we are enabled to access the power of God in the work we do. During the lecture, he expounded on how these characteristics have played a major role in the different circumstances he has faced. The first story he shared took place in the spring of 2019 when he and fellow School of Communications professor Ed Carter led students on a trip to the Colombian island of San Andrés for cultural preservation purposes. They hoped to document after-school programs and capture the unique influence of American sports on the island. Boyle explained that while the group did not know fully what to expect, it took faith and action from both the professors and students alike to journey to an unknown place with very few connections and try to accomplish their goals. He added that their sacrifice of time to be there allowed for a “spirit of love” to be shared among the youth with whom they worked. A later situation where the Lord’s hand was evident was when Boyle worked with other professors and students to celebrate the anniversary of the First Vision in upstate New York. They thought about pushing back the trip in order to have better weather, considering they were traveling in February, but something inside Boyle said they should move forward with the original plans. Boyle told himself that if this is what the Lord wanted them to do, they should do it. In faith, they took action. Ironically, the worst snowstorm of the year hit while the group was there, but miracles along the way proved they were right where they were supposed to be. Because of the intense weather, there was hardly anyone on site at their interview location, allowing for hours of work without disruption. They met a couple who were some of their most compelling interviewees. The lack of population also allowed for a time of personal spirituality when Boyle got up early to visit the Sacred Grove on his own. He said, “to have that Sacred Grove experience is something I will never, ever forget.” Upon reflection, Boyle realized that had the group decided to push their trip back, the work and preparation for the project may have been for naught, because the COVID-19 pandemic hit soon after and most likely would have made the trip impossible. Boyle continued with the final example of how he has witnessed the Lord’s hand in his life. He explained the miracles he and family identified despite the immense sorrow they felt after his father’s death from a bike accident. He said, “While losing Dad was so difficult…, I’m grateful that as I look back, I am able to identify several ways the Lord was preparing us for this trial.” In retrospect, Boyle has been able to recognize that despite the heartache, there have been blessings that have come of it. Boyle’s mother’s college car, Mustang Sally, is one that his father cherished and worked on extensively before he passed. While it had not run for 40 years, the car finally started weeks before his father’s death. Boyle felt that the Lord knew his father’s time on earth was limited and wanted him to finish the car repair as “a gift of love for his sweetheart,” allowing Boyle’s mother to drive Mustang Sally to the funeral. Another tender mercy came when family members received a letter from a man named Emmanuel, who was the recipient of Boyle’s father’s kidneys. Much like Boyle’s father, Emmanuel’s passions included swimming, running and biking. Reflecting on the experience, Boyle noted, “this was the work of the Creator.” While the family prayed for a miracle for Boyle’s father to recover, Boyle understood that “this was the miracle.” Boyle concluded with his testimony that Heavenly Father is in the details of our lives. “As we are willing to do the Lord’s work at BYU, He will make it so we will not be weary. He will make it so we will not faint.” Again emphasizing the importance of accessing heavenly help, Boyle said that through faith, action, sacrifice and love, the power of God is accessible. He said, “On occasion, we don’t have all the answers. We won’t be able to see the end from the beginning.” Boyle continued, “Instead, we need to step out of the light into the darkness, trusting that He will be there to guide us.”

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“Journey” with International Folk Dance Ensemble in Its Pre Tour Performance

Capri Baker — Tue, 15 Feb 2022 16:41:13 +0000

International Folk Dance Ensemble dances through a range of cultures, celebrating through its artistic talents Since 1964, BYU’s International Folk Dance Ensemble has represented a variety of cultures through its dancing. On February 25, the ensemble will take audiences on another cultural trek with its pre tour performance “Journey.” The group pulls inspiration from over a dozen countries, utilizing traditional costumes, props, music and dance from these cultures. With 26 dancers and seven musicians involved in the new production, “Journey” will perform dances from the nations Ireland, Romania, Wales, Indonesia, India, Serbia, Canada, China, Tonga, Ukraine and the United States. Artistic director Jeanette Geslison explained that the students have studied these dance movements, along with the help of invited experts, becoming “an important educational part of their cultural understanding and knowledge.” Geslison continued, “Working with these students is inspiring. They are dedicated to their craft as they grow and expand their life perspectives and cultural understanding through embodying cultural representations.” Among the ensemble are four Irish dancers, seven champion cloggers, one Tongan dancer and two national top placing fiddlers. In addition, one student even choreographed the dance of an Irish piece. Geslison said she aims to represent aspects of these cultural identities with informed knowledge and expertise, showing integrity and respect. She said, “This production celebrates the diversity of cultures, but reflects on the similarities of human experiences.” _______________________________________________________ The performance will take place in the Richards Building Dance Performance Theatre on February 25 at 7:30 p.m. and February 26 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets for this event may be purchased at https://byutickets.evenue.net/. Following the recent rise in local and national COVID-19 cases, BYU will be requiring attendees of indoor public events on campus (athletics, performing arts, conferences and symposiums) to present proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to gain access to the event venue. All patrons are required to wear a mask while indoors at campus performance venues, regardless of vaccination status. For details about the updated COVID-19 policy, visit coronavirus.byu.edu.

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Like Father, Like Son: Art Rascon Steps Down as Son Jacob Rascon Steps Up to Fill His Position as News Anchor

Capri Baker — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 18:35:55 +0000

Jacob Rascon takes the place of his father Art Rascon after 36 years in the journalism business, looking forward to filling the shoes his father wore so well Courtesy of Art Rascon News anchor, Area Seventy, BYU Comms alum and father Art Rascon has recently passed the torch to his son Jacob Rascon as he took over the anchor position at ABC13 in Houston, where Art Rascon has spent much of his career. On January 3, Art and Jacob Rascon shared the anchor desk as they were respectively working their last and first days on the job. It was a bittersweet day for the news team as they welcomed Jacob Rascon and bid farewell to Art Rascon. With a total of 36 years in journalism reporting on events in some 80 countries, Art Rascon worked for CBS NEWS and spent 28 years at ABC NEWS, anchoring many of those years in Houston. Art Rascon is the recipient of 19 Emmy Awards, two Edward R. Murrow awards, a Rotary International award and other notable recognitions. He has been serving since 2020 as an Area Seventy for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Courtesy of Art Rascon For the Rascons, journalism is a family affair. Art Rascon’s sons Jacob and Matt Rascon, as well as his brother Dan Rascon are all School of Communications alumni — evidence that the talent and passion for storytelling and love for BYU runs in the Rascons’ blood. As an Emmy- and Edward R. Murrow-award recipient, Jacob Rascon is an accomplished journalist in his own right. His career travels have taken him to places like Egypt, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Asia and all 50 states. He has covered such major events as the 2016 Presidential campaign — including conventions and inauguration — the X Games and the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympics. Jacob Rascon remembers visiting the ABC13 station as a child and looks forward to following in his father’s footsteps. He said it is an honor to take on this new role and that the opportunity to succeed his father, “who is the consummate journalist and an even better person,” makes him immensely proud. Courtesy of Art Rascon

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BYU Young Ambassadors Present “Thank You For The Music” Featuring Classic Hits

Capri Baker — Tue, 08 Feb 2022 16:54:02 +0000

Attributing a variety of classic artists, BYU Young Ambassadors share their talents along with music sung by many of the “greats” Celebrating the musical hits that have appeared on stage, screen and radio, the BYU Young Ambassadors present their upcoming production “Thank You For The Music.” This performance features a wide range of classics by such artists as Queen, ABBA and Whitney Houston, as well as songs from popular musicals “Guys and Dolls,” “Wicked” and “Newsies.” The group will also highlight music by contemporary artists such as Ed Sheeran, BTS, Disney and more. The BYU Young Ambassadors’ artistic director Nathan Balser emphasized the important role that music plays in our lives. He said, “Whether humming along in our car or screaming aloud in the shower, the songs of the radio, TV, movies and the Broadway stage have made us, in part, who we are.” The BYU Young Ambassadors have shared their talents across the globe and have performed everywhere from Brazil to South Africa to Cambodia. The ensemble has also performed for influential individuals, including the prime minister of India, the queen of Thailand and the king and queen of Jordan. The ensemble of 29 students has shared their talents across the globe, singing and dancing their way through 67 different nations. By means of dance, music and theatre, the BYU Young Ambassadors offer their unique view of American culture. With “Thank You For the Music,” Balser said, “The BYU Young Ambassadors present the songs by which we live our lives.” _____________________________________________________________________________ The performance will take place in the Harris Fine Arts Center de Jong Concert Hall. Tickets for this event may be purchased at https://byutickets.evenue.net/. Times and dates are as follows: Thursday, February 24 at 7:30 p.m. Friday, February 25 at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, February 26 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Following the recent rise in local and national COVID-19 cases, BYU will be requiring attendees of indoor public events on campus (athletics, performing arts, conferences and symposiums) to present proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to gain access to the event venue. All patrons are required to wear a mask while indoors at campus performance venues, regardless of vaccination status. For details about the updated COVID-19 policy, visit coronavirus.byu.edu.

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BYU Theatre Ballet Performance is On Pointe, Presenting “Ballet in Concert”

Capri Baker — Thu, 27 Jan 2022 18:21:32 +0000

Talent from BYU Theatre Ballet’s students and directors will not disappoint in the upcoming “Ballet in Concert” performance Pirouetting into the spotlight, BYU Theatre Ballet will present a repertory performance in their “Ballet in Concert.” Ballet lovers of all ages are invited to witness Theatre Ballet’s take on classic choreography through every leap. The performance will include one of George Balanchine‘s most famous works, “Serenade,” and “Confetti” by Gerald Arpino. In addition, the performance will feature Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov’s “Paquita Suite,” restaged by BYU Assistant Professor Ashley Parov. Associate Professor Shayla Bott’s new, original work “Salzburg Songs” will also be presented. Assistant Director for Theatre Ballet Hilary Wolfley explained the great deal of hard work that has been put in to learn the “Serenade” choreography accurately. Theatre Ballet worked with Viki Psihoyos, a répétiteur from the Balanchine Trust, to accurately learn the choreography and history of the piece. Wolfley noted that this work is one that the ballet company has been looking forward to performing for a few years. She said, “It is a great honor for our dancers to perform this iconic classic.” Wolfley said that Arpino’s “Confetti” is a work which has also proved an opportunity for the ballet students to exhibit their work ethic and improve their skills. “This exciting work features three pas de deux couples and really pushes the students to develop speed and stamina,” she said. Wolfley continued, “It is demanding and joyful from start to finish.” _____________________________________________________________________________ The performance will take place in the Harris Fine Arts Center de Jong Concert Hall. Dates and times are as follows: February 10-11 at 7:30 p.m. February 12 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Following the recent rise in local and national COVID-19 cases, BYU will be requiring attendees of indoor public events on campus (athletics, performing arts, conferences and symposiums) to present proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to gain access to the event venue. All patrons are required to wear a mask while indoors at campus performance venues, regardless of vaccination status. For details about the updated COVID-19 policy, visit https://www.byu.edu/.

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Contemporary Dance Theatre Brings Dreams to Life in Performance “Within Dreams”

Capri Baker — Thu, 13 Jan 2022 22:37:20 +0000

The Contemporary Dance Theatre performance will dance in and out of reality and find hope within it all Once known as The Dancers’ Company, Contemporary Dance Theatre has been dancing and performing across the globe since 1975. They have traveled to a variety of locations, including the United States, Puerto Rico, South America, East Asia, South Africa, Turkey, Australia and Israel. The group plays with various communication styles through both choreography and performance. On January 27–29, Contemporary Dance Theatre will present “Within Dreams,” exploring the space that lies between reality and escapism. Director Keely Song said that audience members can look forward to an exciting dreamscape in the performance. Song said, “‘Within Dreams’ follows the story of ‘Todd,’ who must face his family after losing his job.” She continued, “Navigating the dreamscape of his subconscious, we join him as he tries to settle his anxiety, build a new life, and learn to dream again.” The original dance script writer Benjamin Raymont was inspired by the numerous challenges individuals faced as a result of the global pandemic. Song’s hope for this concert is to have a positive impact on the audience, encouraging viewers to look forward to what lies ahead. Song said, “In a time of uncertainty and anxiety, it can be painful to think about a future. … We hope this concert leaves the audience feeling that even if the current moment doesn’t look like what we expected, we can dream and hope for a better future. It’s there, waiting for us.” The performance includes animations and designs created by students in the BYU Design and Illustration program, as well as ASL actors under the direction of Anne Fife. Additionally, the program will feature many internationally renowned choreographers and local artists. Song encourages all to witness the “power of dance that makes dreams become a physical reality” and to “dream again.” For ticket information, visit arts.byu.edu. ___________________________________________________________________________ “Within Dreams” Harris Fine Arts Center Pardoe Theatre January 27–28 at 7:30 p.m. January 29 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Following the recent rise in local and national COVID-19 cases, BYU will be requiring attendees of indoor public events on campus (athletics, performing arts, conferences and symposiums) to present proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to gain access to the event venue. All patrons are required to wear a mask while indoors at campus performance venues, regardless of vaccination status. For details about the updated COVID-19 policy, visit arts.byu.edu.

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Living Legends to Start Off the New Year with Vibrant Pre Tour Performance

Capri Baker — Tue, 11 Jan 2022 23:49:27 +0000

The Living Legends begin the year as its performers represent a variety of cultures, creating connection amidst the global pandemic Through costume, storytelling, dance and music Living Legends present their pre tour performance in a celebration of Polynesian, Native American and Latino American cultures and a debut of their new show “Storytellers.” Indigenous performers will share their talents as they present a sweeping view of heritage from North and South America and the South Pacific. The performance will take place in the Richards Building Dance Performance Theatre at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, January 14. For ticket information, visit arts.byu.edu. _____________________________________________________________________________ All patrons are required to wear a mask while indoors at campus performance venues, regardless of vaccination status.

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