Stacy Sanderson, grade 12

Just a couple of months ago, the entire dance department took the stage to perform our most recent dance recital. Opening the show was the Middle School and Upper School, dancing to “Beneath the Surface,” showing versatility and teamwork between the classes.

The dancers performed well to choreography from Mrs. Holly Mehling and Ms. Jamie McCann, as well as individually choreographed pieces. The versatility of the dances ranged from the well-known “Sleigh Ride” tap-dance performed by the sixth-graders to the contemporary “Feeling Good” dance by the Advanced Dance class.

This Winter Dance Recital was one of my favorites so far. The girls all worked together, which really stood out to the audience and other dancers. This year, having a smaller class has created a family atmosphere. I got to know girls that I didn’t know before, and I have created bonds I never had expected. The friendship and trust in my class was really prevalent, and noticeable to many who saw us in the recital or outside of class.

Alexis Moore, grade 12, a senior member of the Advanced Dance class and a wonderful contribution to the department since she was in grade 6, said, “I thought it was successful and fun. I thought the dances were more out-of-the-box than in other years.” Likewise, Paige Gammell, grade 12, an extremely talented dancer who transferred here in her junior year, performed a solo to “Happy” by Leona Lewis. She said, “I was really excited to dance in front of my friends because it’s something I love to do. I felt my dance went well and Ms. Jamie helped me a lot. I think the dance recital went well and all the hard work showed.”

I have been in the dance department since grade 6, and I believe it to be one of the best experiences I have had at St. Margaret’s. In athletics, you learn to be part of a team and to rely on others, and the dance department is no different. You trust that your classmates will do their part, just as you intend to do yours, and you all work together in order to make your art truly stand out. The dance recital was a fun experience that I feel honored to have been a part of for seven years. Ms. Holly has been an incredible influence and mentor over the years, strengthening my love of dance. I don’t know how to thank her. She has broadened my interests far beyond what I ever thought possible.

The skills and love of dance that I have acquired through St. Margaret’s will come with me, as I plan on dancing through college and beyond.

Tags: Performing Arts