Coming to Mahalia Jackson: Pilobolus

After a brief hurricane hiatus, NoDef's fall arts previews continue with a look at some of the most physical arts offerings around. The dance calendar is busy this fall, with a famed group making its first appearance in 10 years, Stomp and, as always, a little burlesque.

The dance world springs ahead this fall with an entertaining lineup of physical stylings. Talented companies from around the world take the stage with original and classic choreography. The following is a sneak peak into dance and burlesque performances coming New Orleans' way as the weather gets cooler:

The astounding physicality of Pilobolus takes the stage on October 20, at Mahalia Jackson Theater. Their return, thanks to the New Orleans Ballet Association, is welcome, as it has been 10 years since they last performed in the Big Easy. The company started at Dartmouth in 1971, expanding on their experimental results from a dance class. They come back to the stage to showcase the skillful positionings of all their bodies. New and previous audiences alike will be amazed as the seemingly impossible shapes and movements begin to unfold.

The New Orleans Ballet Association also presents Ballet Hispanico, which has been called one of the best Hispanic-American dance troupes in the world. Sexy meets skilled as the 19 member troupe whirls and leaps around the stage. The talented Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra provides the music for the dancers seducing the audience and each other. Their style brings the feel of a hot, Latino neighborhood dance party; their excitement infectious. It's a new and positive way to introduce someone to ballet.

Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra Corbian Visual Arts and Dance and Lightwire Theater return to the CAC in September for a residency with their new show, The Ugly Duckling. Ian Carney and Corbin Popp lead this company with shows targeted towards children, but enjoyed by all. The success of their last show, Darwin the Dinosaur, lead them on a world-wide tour, to showcase a visually astounding dance performance. The Ugly Duckling continues the lightshow in the format of a familiar story. The dancers are adorned in lights in a dark theater, and their movement makes the animals come to life. For a truly original show, see The Ugly Duckling, as the lights, sound and choreography are a must to witness.

Rick DeLaup, Director of Bustout Burlesque, presents the 4th annual New Orleans Burlesque Festival from September  13-15. Burlesque and New Orleans go hand in hand, so it is apropos that a weekend dedicated to the art of burlesque teases audiences here. Dancers strip and seduce their way through performances spanning 3 days, to compete for the illustrious title of Queen of Burlesque. Comedians and bands perform as well, alllowing for a series of well rounded and entertaining shows.

STOMP has been entertaining audiences for years, and this fall is no exception. The Mahalia Jackson Theater welcomes the company again this September 14th-16th. Since the show's inception for the Edinburgh Festival, STOMP has continued to please audiences through percussive sounds and humor. For this tour, some of the pieces have been reworked. Also, new ones have been added, such as "Paint Cans." This is a great show to attend whether or not you are a dance aficionado.

Some are just starting out and others have already stood the test of time, but grab the opportunity to attend while you can.