Danstage 2016 will include original dances choreographed by Max Pollak, Michael Estanich, Jeannie Hill and Joan Karlen but are performed by University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UWSP) dancers.

Each of the six short works are completely different from each other. There is everything from RumbaTap to incorporating glass works onstage and waltzing in order to have a wide variety of skills showcased.

“We’re thinking about what makes an appealing program for the public, so that there’s not too much of any one thing, but rather there is a variety of dynamics, styles and approaches,” said Karlen, dance program coordinator.

Danstage 2016 will feature dancers from the UWSP Theatre and Dance Department at 7:30 p.m. April 8 and 9 and 14 to 16. There will be a show at 2 p.m. April 10. All will be in the Jenkins Theatre in the Noel Fine Arts Center.

Tickets are $21 for adults, $20 for seniors, $16 for youth and $4.50 for students. They can be purchased at the Information and Tickets office located in the Dreyfus University Center or by calling 715-346-4100.

Karlen choreographed “Flicker,” a restage originally performed in 2006, and “Anthem.” During “Anthem” there will be two live and local piano players onstage; the score is played and composed by Jeffrey Brooks. The choice was made to play live because the two piano parts play off of each other, which is more apparent live, said Karlen.

Danstage showcases the versatility and artistry of the students. For some, this is the last time they will perform before graduation.

“It’s a little nerve wracking and I’m sad to have to leave but I’m really excited for my future,” said Amanda Armbruster, senior dance major. “It’ll be bittersweet, but it’ll be a nice sendoff.”

Armbruster will perform in “Resplendent Walls,” which is a Viennese waltz, and “A Classical Suite,” choreographed by Estanich. She said she is looking forward to expanding her dance experience and working with Estanich because she enjoys his class so much.

Danstage has been in the works for months. During fall semester the choreographers decided on pieces and how many dancers they needed. The weekend before Thanksgiving dancers auditioned for four hours each, an hour in front of each choreographer.

Then the choreographers invited dancers to be a part of their performances and solidified the choreography during rehearsals, which started the week of Jan. 25.