Dwight Rhodens «Complexions» on tour

Dwight Rhoden founded Complexions in 1994 with the company’s star dancer, Desmond Richardson. Both co-artistic directors danced with Alvin Ailey. As a principal at American Ballet Theatre, Richardson originated the lead in Lar Lubovitch’s “Othello” in 1997, which he is reprising this year. Despite Richardson’s physical beauty and technique, he isn’t the flashiest company member. That honor goes to Rubinald Pronk – tall, willowy, with infinite legs and apparently no hip joints. Coming a close second is Bryan Arias; a compact speed demon with a smoldering stage presence.

Such a talented roster can be a mixed blessing, fueling Rhoden’s tendency to go for “money shots” – big, impressive steps. He tends to put together one big move followed by a pause and then another big move, rather than crafting flowing, organic phrases. It feels more akin to martial arts or gymnastics, with similar “wow” effects, and a tendency to wear down the audience.

In “Hissy Fits” (2006) set to jazzy Bach, the eight performers were sculptures come to life, tossing off hyperarticulated developpes, and plunging into deep lunges. Arias had a darting, repeating solo ending with him on the floor trying to suck his ...