A new five-hour dance exhibition, Art in Motion, makes its debut Saturday at Dowagiac’s Summer in the City Festival, as it brings together Mexican and African dance troops, along with students from community dance studios.

The three-day festival, which also features Sizzlin’ Hot Sidewalk Days, will be staged in the central business district Thursday through Saturday.

Presented by the Greater Dowagiac Chamber of Commerce, Summer in the City presents 78 hours of vocal and instrumental entertainment and dance, an array of family events and the acclaimed Steve’s Run of Southwestern Michigan College.

Festival chairwoman Vickie Phillipson, program director for the Chamber of Commerce and DDA, said she is pleased to bring together each of Dowagiac’s dance studios, along with the two visiting troupes, for a five-hour exhibition.

The performance will be staged in the newly surfaced parking lot off Front Street, between Twistee’s and Front Street Crossing.

Performing for its first time in Dowagiac will be Ballett Folklorico Sol Azteca, which will share the history of authentic Mexican folkloric music, dance and costumes that represent the various regions of Mexico. Ballett Folklorico Sol Azteca will perform at 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

Performing Saturday at 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. will be Kevin Collins and the Kuungana African dance troupe.

Phillipson said Collins is a respected percussionist, who shares his love of African music through interactive performances.

The Art in Motion dance exhibition will also feature an estimated 60 to 80 dance students from Dowagiac’s various studios.