Early in his career, Tom Ralabate, now UB professor emeritus of theatre and dance, created a classic adagio in the style of jazz dance greats Matt Mattox and Phil Black. Adagio refers to slow movement, typically performed with more grace and fluidity than other dance movements.

It was first presented in 1981 at Baird Point as a lecture-demonstration by members of the Zodiaque Dance Company, which Ralabate directed for many years.

Michael Deeb Weaver (left), clinical assistant professor, and Tom Ralabate confer as they watch the dancers perform.

Over the past 40 years, this choreography became standardized as a part of the curriculum of Jazz 4 (DAC 372).

Jenna Zavrel, who was shooting a video of the performance, gives direction to the dancers.

Ralabate's recent retirement provided a unique opportunity to have UB dance majors pay tribute by recreating this performance at Baird Point, where it all began.