by Cameron Stokes ’19
Dancers in Contemporary Dance Workshop I and II have been rehearsing for their upcoming showcase on Thursday in the Saperstein Theatre. The CDW II students have their own showcase with one unifying theme, whereas the CDW I classes are performing individual dances in a recital format. The dancers began rehearsals in early October.
“The dancers are coming in really prepared, with inventive and creative mindsets that have allowed for a huge amount of unique and choreographic success. They are quick and productive learners,” dance teacher Joe Schenck said.
In late September, students in CDW II decided on the theme of color for their show. According to Schenck, colors can suggest a large spectrum of different emotions and styles of dance, which will allow for a visually stimulating performance. Schenck also explained that this broad theme of color has opened the minds of the dancers and has pushed them to explore their immense artistic achievement through creative thinking and productive collaboration.
The positive anticipation for the show has been expressed through both the dancers and their teacher.
“I am excited to showcase all the hard work and dedication I have put into dance class this semester. I also can’t wait to perform in front of the school community for the first time,” CDWI dancer Charlotte Block ’21 said.
Along with student-created choreography and creative theme, the showcase has another special element that performers are enthusiastic about.
“What I am really excited about is that we have a projection artist to create moving backdrops behind the dances. So not only are they’re advanced dances, but there is a sophisticated design element with these projections behind them, which we have never seen before in a CDW II showcase,” Schenck said.