As the curtain prepares to rise before the Cardinal Gibbons dance show, anticipation builds throughout the whole theater.
From the perspective of an outsider, this class might seem like just a casual elective that performs frivolous shows and performances.
However, exploring further, you realize that this show is more than just that. It is an accumulation of hard work, personal growth, and connection among classmates.
Growth and Passion Through Dance
“Dance is more than a class, it’s an opportunity to create new friends and new relationships. It’s also a place to learn many new values from your teachers and peers,” said Lyla Opitz, taking the dance elective. “I grew up loving dance, and I wasn’t sure Gibbons would have a dance program, let alone one that was challenging, technical, and practical for all levels. But once I saw one of their shows, I knew that this was the elective for me. Best choice I’ve made.”
The Gibbons dance class offers a space to express yourself and build up confidence through developing dance skills and creating creative performances. For students with sports, academics, and more all crammed into their schedules, dance is an escape. It is an emotional outlet, built with vulnerable expression and true character.
“Dance provides a great outlet outside of my usual routine. It’s a chance to disconnect from everything else and just focus on the movement. It helps clear my mind and lets me express myself in many different ways,” expressed another student, Maeve Cimo.
“There’s something about being able to challenge myself physically while also being creative that makes it such a good break from my regular academic classes, and after-school sport. Plus, it’s a space where I can just be present and have fun with my friends.”
The Road to the Show
As the dance performances come up, energy is at an all-time high. The dancers work tirelessly to tweak routines and practice until perfection. Uneasiness does appear leading up to the show, but with supportive classmates, worry turns to excitement.
“The classes and preparation weeks before the show are stressful, but necessary, since it is full of finishing dances, but there is also a lot of eagerness that comes with it because we will soon be able to show everyone what we have been working so hard these past months on,” said Julia Martin.
More Than Just a Class
The environment of the day of the performance is electric.
“Everyone’s getting ready, making sure costumes are in place, and running through the final details. Everyone is very focused and ready to do their best,” explained Madeline Skager.
Backstage, dancers support one another and shake the nerves off. There is nervous energy in the air, but it clears once dancers are finally on the stage to show what they have been working on.
After hearing all of these stories and watching the preparation for the shows unfold, it became clear that the Cardinal Gibbons dance elective takes a lot of dedication. The class is a collection of artistic expression and determination.
For these students, dance is more than just an elective they chose randomly in freshman year – it’s something that has altered their lives and shaped them in various ways.
When the curtain opens and the lights shine on their faces, the dancers know that they aren’t just performing a routine – they are showcasing their hard work and passion through movement.
