Motirô

Friday-Sunday: Contempo Physical Dance made its splash debut three years ago at the Ritz Theatre with an evening-length work called "Motirô." The company brings the piece back for a weekend engagement at the Cowles Center. Contempo was formed by Brazilian-born choreographer Marciano Silva dos Santos — celebrated for his dancing with TU Dance, Penumbra and Stuart Pimsler — and his wife, dancer Jenny Pennaz. They incorporate Afro-Brazilian dance, capoeira martial arts and contemporary dance for an athletic, rhythmic style that's unique in the Twin Cities. Contempo has made a name for itself with productions such as last year's "SenZalma" at the Cowles. The debut of "Motirô" three years ago used Gattamorta's already recorded music. This version includes an original score. (7:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun., Cowles Center, 528 Hennepin Av. S., Mpls., $20-$25, 612-206-3600, www.thecowlescenter.org.)

Sheila Regan