On Tuesday and Thursday afternoons during the spring term, students in Classes 5-7 can be found expressing their creativity, collaborating with their friends across grades, having fun and, of course, dancing in the 9th floor dance studio.
As members of the Middle School Spring Dance Club, the students engage in a variety of dance genres from Horton technique, classical jazz, contemporary styles to hip-hop.
For their culminating spring performance, and with Dance Teacher Jamia Jordan’s guidance, each Class 7 member had the unique opportunity to choreograph a piece for the show—all inspired by the themes of sisterhood and community.
One 7th grader, Diana, titled her dance “Shake It Off,” and set it to the instrumental version of Taylor Swift’s song of the same name. “The piece encompasses jazz and acrobatic dance,” she said, “with high energy!” Diana explained that she supported her group by making time to “meet with dancers individually to go over the steps that I created.”
Axya, another Class 7 choreographer, worked with Class 5 and 7 students for her piece, saying she pulled inspiration from artists she’s seen throughout her life.
“I love flowy, acrobatic movements,” remarked Jojo, another Class 7 choreographer, “and I wanted to express my love for dancing in my piece.”
Meanwhile, Taylor and Laila collaborated on a hip-hop number. “We chose our dancers because they all have vivacious energy,” Taylor said. When creating their steps, the duo worked with each dancer to “highlight [each individual’s] skill sets.”
Victoria designed a number inspired by her grandmother. “The song I chose [Birds of a Feather by Billie Eilish] reminds me of her,” she said of her lyrical piece. “It was amazing working with my dancers. Their bodies flow through the movements and they each have a lot of technique.”
The dancers have grown in leaps and bounds under Ms. Jordan’s direction. In addition to her leadership, guidance and support, the Club members were treated to lessons from a talented guest choreographer, and alum, Gabriella Alleyne ’20!
The students' talents were on full display on the evening of May 29 as parents and guests watched in awe in the Assembly Room. The Middle Schoolers’ energy and excitement for dance was infectious. “I am so proud of the girls,” Ms. Jordan gushed.
Congratulations all around to our budding dancers and choreographers! Browse photos HERE!