At 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24, in the Peoples Bank Theatre, Compagnie Herve Koubi will showcase “Sol Invictus,” a high-energy and luminous exploration of unity, love, and renewal through a blend of contemporary and urban dance with capoeira and martial arts. (Photo provided)

The 2025-26 Esbenshade Series and Marietta College are launching with a performance from the French-based, Algerian-inspired dance troupe Compagnie Herve Koubi, renowned for its fearless, gravity-defying choreography.

On Wednesday, Sept. 24, at 8 p.m. in the Peoples Bank Theatre, the company will showcase “Sol Invictus,” a high-energy and luminous exploration of unity, love, and renewal through a blend of contemporary and urban dance with capoeira and martial arts.

“If you’ve never experienced live dance–or always thought it wasn’t for you–Herve Koubi is your gateway! This is one of the most extraordinary dance companies in the world,” said Todd Burge, Esbenshade Series Director.

Founded in 2000 by French dancer and choreographer Herve Koubi, the company draws inspiration from his Algerian roots. Koubi returned to his ancestral country, where he collaborated with street dancers from across the Mediterranean, creating choreography that moves with powerful imagery and combines meditative and athletic movement. “Sol Invictus” derives its name from the “invincible sun” deity, embodying a message of love and peace, where communion becomes humanity’s saving grace despite fracture.

“Sol Invictus” features a musical score by Swedish composer Mikael Karlsson, with excerpts by Steve Reich and digital composer Maxime Bodson.

The event is free and open to the public thanks to the Frederica G. Esbenshade Memorial Fund.

Doors open at 7:30 p.m., and ticket reservations are now available with a limit of four per person.

Marietta College is committed to continuing its longstanding tradition of bringing world-class artistry to campus and the local community.

For additional information about the 2025-26 Esbenshade Series, visit marietta.edu/esbenshade-series.

These events have been funded by the Frederica G. Esbenshade Memorial Fund, which provides annual income for the purpose of bringing lectures, performing artists, and programs of a diverse nature to the campus and community at large.

The endowed fund was established in 1980 by Harry H Esbenshade Sr., and Harry H. Esbenshade Jr., husband and son, respectively, of the late Mrs. Esbenshade of Uniontown, Pa.

All events are free and open to the public.