Studio West’s “Spring Showcase 2024”
Originally published on social media on June 3rd, 2024
Somehow, someway, and literally not at all on purpose, I ended up seeing each performance that Studio West held this season, and I must say that there is something truly special about this particular dance company. I believe this rare quality is found in the overall wholesomeness of their performances, and the way they are able to make this family friendly without compromising quality.
Their spring showcase was no exception, and I genuinely enjoyed myself. I loved seeing the variety of dance numbers. The littlest kids were insanely adorable, and then each group got more fun to watch as they advanced in age. I love how the company mixed things up as each number was performed, and that it wasn’t all the same kind of music and the same type of dance the whole time. This was clever because it kept the audience engaged and refreshed!
If I had to pick my two favorite numbers, it would be these:
1). What I will call “the flower chorus” of very young dancers in flower costumes dancing to “In the Golden Afternoon” from Walt Disney’s “Alice in Wonderland.” Their teacher was up there with them holding a big flower wand, which was used to remind them what to do. Rather than looking like a cheesy little kid moment, it gave the effect of a queen fairy controlling her little flowers. In short, through choreography and staging, they turned something that would have just been routine into a story. Bravo!
2). The eldest dance group performed a ballet routine to Dvorak’s Serenade in E major, Op. 22, B. 52, II. Tempo di valse. I fell in love with this piece a couple of years ago, and I find it completely enchanting. You can imagine how much joy it saw me to in some ways see my daydreams come true. I always thought this would be a pretty song to see danced to. I love how the choreographers of this particular number took notice of the piece’s rhythms, and did something special during those “smashing moments” (for a lack of better term). Also, the idea of young people being introduced to composers like Dvorak makes me extremely happy!
Here is a link to the song: https://youtu.be/OPfO97EpLRk?si=ks4rrylc7b6zxVoY
Looking forward to your next season Studio West!