New England Academy of Dance Bids Farewell to Senior Class

Three-hundred-and-fifty ballerinas, ages 6 to 18, performed a series of modern dances at the New Canaan High School Auditorium on June 13 & 14. The performance featured thirty-three different original pieces, set to music ranging from Gershwin to Corelli to Earth Wind & Fire and was the culmination of five months of effort by the entire New England Academy of Dance family.

Performances this year by “The Company,” comprising the school’s most advanced students, included two pieces composed by guest choreographers. Mr. Eric Rivera, a veteran of thirteen seasons with Ballet Hispanico of New York, choreographed “Momentos,” a moving interpretation of Bach’s Cello Suites for seven ballerinas. Dancers were accompanied by Ms. Melissa Gates on cello. Ms. Amy Marshall, co-founder of the Amy Marshall Dance Company in New York, choreographed “Going for the Gold,” a rousing finale for fourteen dancers, set to Vivaldi.

Co-Director Ginna Ortiz values the opportunity for her young ballerinas to get exposure to outside artists. “In addition to the professional instruction that our girls get at NEAD every day, we think it’s important that our most advanced students interact with working artists to see first-hand the skill and dedication necessary at the highest levels of the arts.” Five guest professionals – William Gonzales, Juan Carlos Loreno, Gustavo Ramirez, William Roberson and Miguel Solano – also danced with the Company.

Co-Director Frances Ortiz admitted the Spring Performance is ultimately bittersweet, as the school bids adieu to its senior class, performing for its final time with the school. “This year the Company graduates four accomplished young women, each of whom made their mark on our school and our hearts,” said Ortiz. Emily Meyer of New Canaan will attend The Boston Conservatory in the fall. Helena Silano of Norwalk will study dance at Rider College. New Canaan residents Kristin Davis and Alexa Orndahl will be attending Georgetown University and James Madison, respectively.

Serving students from Fairfield and Westchester Counties, the New England Academy of Dance was established in 1968 and is located at 231 Main Street in New Canaan, CT. Registration is now open for the 2015-16 Season, which begins in September. Further information can be found at www.neadance.com or by calling (203) 972-3265.