Our latest dance show Out of this World took place in the Analy theater. This performance featured many of our talented dancers from the Intro to Dance, Dance 3 classes/company, and the Hillcrest dance program. Out of this World, however, took a unique approach towards challenging the expectation of a ‘typical’ dance performance by using remarkable technique and music that wouldn’t be in your usual dance show. Many performances were self-choreographed by the Dance 3 students. It also encouraged dancers to step out of their comfort zone and played into human feelings. Lots of hard work was put into this show with many months of preparation. But what exactly is happening during this long period of time? As someone in the show, I can walk you through the incredible process that made this happen. Shoutout to our amazing dance coordinator, Jolene Johnson!
Our dance students first start off by rehearsing their dances in class about a month before the show. My intro class began these rehearsals right after winter break – which showed me just how soon this performance would be. Time does go by fast! Both of the dance classes also had other skilled choreographers come in and share their ideas and knowledge of movement to the dancers. Aside from just choreographing, dancers also needed to consider other factors that contribute to creating a phenomenal show such as how they would stage it, lighting, costumes, and a catchy title for their piece. These things are important for almost if not every dance performance because they enhance the work and serve the choreographic idea.
2 weeks before the actual show our dancers now go into tech rehearsals – the time to rehearse on the real stage, which in this case was in the Analy theater. During tech rehearsals, we met with Kyle Sheridan, our local lighting designer, and an El Molino alumni. He tested the music and lights to make sure it was ready to go on the day of the show. The dancers then practice how to get on and off the stage, space their dancing, practice their bow, as well as fixing their costumes. It’s helpful and beneficial for dancers to practice on stage prior to the shower after having rehearsals mostly in the dance room. After these tech rehearsals are over we start the show and perform in front of an audience.
Some other additional things that go into the making of the show for preparation are the creation of the poster (which I have above) which is a great visual to let the community know what to expect in this performance. These posters are usually plastered around the school. For Out of this World, the poster features a young woman inside a hoop and it’s in black and white to represent going against the norms of a school dance performance. Another way we bring the show to the community is also through social media marketing. Thanks to everyone who came to see Out of this World and if you want to support the Analy High dance program then consider coming to our next show, Spring Spectrum, which will take place this April.
