Dancers have had a semester of learning and growth this spring, following the program’s annual concert, Afterglow, which featured more than 80 students from the Lower, Middle, and Upper Schools. The performance included guest works choreographed by Tommy Alexander and Sarah Soto-Berry, adding depth and variety to the evening.

A standout moment of the show was the high-energy finale set to music from The Greatest Showman, which brought the entire cast together in a dynamic and memorable closing number. The concert also highlighted New Light, a piece originally choreographed during the Talon Summer Dance Intensive. Dawn Maldonado, Director of Dance, plans to continue incorporating choreography from summer intensives into future dance concerts. The concert also showcased a Senior Capstone dance performance on film for the first time. Dancers and choreographers included seniors Kate Boyle, Abby Brown, Katherine Cumbow, Avery Lee, Melissa Montgomery, and Elina Tursonoff. The performance was videographed and edited by senior Anaka Davidsen.

Throughout the year, dancers are able to have classes with world-class guest artists whose instruction range in styles from ballet to contemporary and from tap to jazz. ESJ dancers participate in several activities on campus including Parent Previews, Wednesday Chapel services, and collaborate with Chorale, Middle and Upper School Theatre programs during their concerts. Special congratulations to students who recently won awards at the annual Dance Ensemble end-of year event, including Simon Carter, Best Male Dancer; Katherine Cumbow, Senior Dancer of the Year; and Anaka Davidsen, Tommy Alexander Guest Artist award.

“Our dancers did not stop learning during spring semester, and we love showcasing both their artistry and technical proficiency,” said Mrs. Maldonado. “My favorite part is always watching how they come together as a team to create something truly magical on stage. Their professionalism and passion go far beyond their years, and it is an honor to work with them.”