Performing Arts
Dance Showcase 15th–17th March 2011 The Arts matter in our lives. They are not just a luxury that we can indulge in when times are good and discard when things get a little tight. They define who we are; they shape our understanding of the world; and they engage every aspect of our being – the mind, the body, the spirit, the heart. Last month was the perfect illustration of this. The massed talents of dancers from across the age ranges transformed all those who were privileged enough to be there. From the vivacity of Chaos, the Junior School Dance project through to the sophistication and darkness of the pieces created by the senior students in their final year, this was an evening of skill, talent and integrity. Everything was just so professional, from the stage management through to the lighting and sound. And as I left the Hall after the final curtain I knew that I had been changed: I felt lighter, more joyful and very proud; I had been made to think and to challenge some of my perceptions and I wanted to learn how to do what these young people had just shown me of the potential in all of us. I thoroughly enjoyed the variety of the event. From classical influences and highly accomplished contemporary work; tap, jazz and street; solos, pair work and huge ensemble pieces, there was something for everyone there. This was more than a show: this was a celebration of all that is great in the Academy and in young people today. We saw the beautiful product of the combination of hours of dedication and hard work with creativity and imagination. We saw young people developing their vocabulary of movement and learning to communicate with an audience. We saw huge numbers of friends and families supporting their loved ones. And we were bound together in a spirit of delight. We are truly fortunate to have such talented young people at the Academy and they would be the first to acknowledge that this is down to the talent, commitment, passion and drive of their three dance teachers: Miss Poulter, Miss Lawlor and Miss MacGregor. I am very proud to be able to work alongside them. Their work is a triumph of the creative human spirit. Mr G Williams Director of Specialism (Performing Arts) gwilliams@srwa.woodard.co.uk