The dance program brought storytelling to the stage with its annual production on March 27th.
This year’s theme was “Once Upon a Time” and combined choreography and storytelling in a production that encompassed many styles of dance, such as jazz, pop, and contemporary. The show highlighted the work of dancers from Contemporary Dance Workshop II and Dance Production, the two highest levels of dance available at the middle school. While most of the performers were within those classes, there were guest dancers who were not currently enrolled in dance classes at the middle school.
Among the guest dancers was Dylan McGinnis ’29. He shared his solo “Footnotes & Footwork“ choreographed to a song by Booker T. & the M.G.s.
McGinnis tap dances, a dance form often involving complex footwork and concentration. Tap dancing requires precise rhythm, coordination, and control to produce clear, intentional sounds through footwork. It required balancing speed, rhythms, and improvisation while maintaining balance and musicality, making it both physically and mentally demanding.
He has remained passionate about tap dancing for many years, and says that he has been tap dancing for eight years, long before he played any sports or other activities. While he had always shown interest in the school’s program, it encompasses many different forms of dance, McGinnis focuses his talents solely on tap dancing. He also found himself unable to take the class because of scheduling conflicts.
McGinnis said he first became involved with the dance program in eighth grade. The opportunity came after his family suggested he explore the program.
“My sister was already in Dance Production, and my Mom had the idea for me to participate in the program,” McGinnis said. “We contacted the dance teacher, and it went really well the first time, and the rest was history.”
After preparing for the week leading up to the performance, McGinnis says he was excited to perform. Although returning to the stage took some adjustment, McGinnis said the experience quickly became enjoyable.
“The experience was fun,” McGinnis said. “I was a little rusty at first, but I got my feet wet. After that, the rest of the experience was really enjoyable.”
One of the most memorable parts for McGinnis came from the audience.
“My favorite part was seeing my friends in the audience,” he said. “It made me really happy that they showed up.”
McGinnish had a positive experience and is excited for what the future holds.
