Metzi Hovenga nackt - Choreographers Festival begins Thursday in Costa Rica

The final image burned as brightly as the row of candles that seemed to measure eternity as it extended into the wings.

Nothing poisons perception of a dance like unnecessary length.

Though most of the offerings impressed, one evening of overlong dances proved especially tedious.

Awards will be given in five categories: First-time Participation, Beginners, Experts, Best Female Performance and Best Male Performance.

The Compania Nacional de Danza cast included a rocking woman, a keytoting guard, and a bare-breasted snake handler.

Performances start at 8 p.