Preparing High School Artists for College and Beyond

As we approach the upcoming Annual Formal Dance Concert at Dana Hall, set for February 28 and March 1, 2025, I am excited to reflect on the many ways this event prepares our students for future success—not only in dance but also in any professional field they choose to pursue. While the concert itself is an impressive showcase of student talent, it is also a comprehensive training experience that provides students with a rare level of professionalism at the high school level. Whether a student is on stage or in the booth, every detail is designed to nurture the necessary skills they’ll need in college and beyond.

The dance concert is run as a professional show. Students are involved in every stage of the process, from choreography and rehearsals to production and technical development. This is not just a chance to perform for an audience—it is an opportunity for students to engage in a collaborative environment where they are expected to meet rigorous standards. This process mirrors what students might experience in professional performing arts environments, providing them with the tools to succeed in any future artistic or professional endeavor.

Student creativity takes center stage in our concert, as our students choreograph several pieces in the program. This allows dancers to take on leadership roles, developing their artistic talents under the mentorship of faculty. The experience of creating and performing their work builds confidence, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills while also providing an outlet for creative expression. Dancers also have the opportunity to work with guest choreographers in preparation for the concert, who bring their own unique artistic vision and expectations, further challenging our students to grow and adapt as artists.

Another valuable aspect of this experience is the collaboration between our Dance and Technical Theater programs. Through this partnership, student lighting designers, technical crew members, choreographers, and dancers work closely together, building a robust, creative relationship that is the foundation of our production. Lighting design and other technical aspects are integral to storytelling in a dance performance, and by working alongside the design team and tech crew, student dancers and choreographers understand how technical elements can enhance their artistic vision. The tech crew, in turn, can see the impact of their designs and behind-the-scenes work on the cohesion and success of a performance.

Our Annual Dance Concert allows the Dana Hall community to see our students as whole individuals—capable, confident, and creative young people who excel in areas beyond the classroom. The concert highlights the multifaceted talents of our students and shows how dance and the Performing Arts can serve as personal and professional development tools.

Join us in celebrating the achievements of our talented Performing Arts students at Unfold, this year’s formal Dance Concert, on February 28 and March 1, 2025. We hope you will experience firsthand the passion, creativity, and professionalism that Dana Hall students bring to the stage and leave inspired by the remarkable work of these dedicated young artists.