Based on the life and stories of prominent African American science fiction writer Octavia Butler, OCTAVIA, the work of STAYCEE PEARL dance project (SPdp), will premier on Friday at the Kelly Strayhorn Theater (KST).

The work OCTAVIA promises to be particularly engaging for the Pittsburgh dance aficionado as it is performed by KST’s new resident company under the direction of choreographer Staycee Pearl. In conversation with another local dancer who has seen rehearsals of the show, Pearl has taken her breed of contemporary dance in a new direction with OCTAVIA, integrating her multimedia explorations on a higher level and creating a unique movement vocabulary.

KST’s website summarizes OCTAVIA as an examination of, ‘Butler’s work and life story; her insecurities, self doubt, and triumphs; juxtaposing her persona with her stories, layering her experience with that of a composite of characters,’ and adds, ‘Finding similarities in character personalities, powers, adventures, and moods, Pearl creates a world colored by Butler’s story telling sensibilities and an interpretation of Butler’s own life.’

OCTAVIA is the fourth work that SPdp will premier at the Strayhorn; SPdp began presenting work at KST when PUPA premiered as part of the Creative Community Artist Residency Program in July 2010. OCTAVIA will be performed December 2nd and 3rd at 8pm with a pre-show mixer at 7pm. For more details and ticketing information visit KST’s website.