The mood the dance program gave throughout the whole night ranged from joy to sadness. The energy from every dancer was unique as they performed with their hearts out on the stage. 24 dances were submitted to the Fullerton College Faculty Dance Concert, but only 14 were selected to be featured.
The concert was held on May 1 and 2 at the FC campus theater and was directed by Dance Department Chair Melanie Kay Rosa, featuring choreography by dance teachers Dylan Chavez and Valeria Cabag, who also work in the dance department.
According to Rosa, some dances were created with clear thematic intentions, while others were more open to interpretation, allowing the audience to discover their own meanings.
“Dance can communicate in ways that are both direct and abstract, which is part of what makes it such a powerful art form,” said Rosa.
Each dance had its own respective feelings, and some featured music genres like hip-hop, lyrical, and varied group dances.
A routine choreographed by Dylan Chavez, titled “Thread Between Us,” explored human connections, with a red string used to signify the dancer’s bonds. As the piece progressed, the string was always intertwined with the dancers; it never broke apart, nor was it ever lost within the stage.
Another dance, called “She Who Holds The Sky,” by Valeria Cabag, was inspired by the Virgin Mary. This dance had a light mood, with the dancers dressed to highlight the main dancer, who wore a veil to portray the holy figure.
While some performers have prior dance experience, there are some students who are performing for the very first time. Regardless, the stage welcomes all, no matter their experience.
According to Rosa, a lot of work goes into putting together 24 dance pieces; it takes commitment, dedication, and strength. It can also be frustrating, as mistakes can slow rehearsal progress, or maybe a favorite dance wasn’t selected to be featured.
Both nights ended with each performer on stage in costume, proudly bowing, giving thanks to the audience. As the curtains closed, the students all danced happily and hugged each other for all their hard work.
“Watching my students perform is incredibly rewarding. It is inspiring to witness their artistic and technical growth over time,” said Rosa.
