Practice time or no practice time, the dancers at the Woodbridge-based Dance Etc. School of the Arts will be ready to perform this New Year's Day in Miami.
For the second straight year, the school has been invited to dance in the Orange Bowl halftime show. Last year, the group had only a week to practice a 1960s number choreographed by "American Idol" and "So You Think You Can Dance" contestant Mandy Moore.
"We hope [we get the tape] sooner than last time," said artistic director Ann Boyle. "... Last year we got it two weeks before we were to go."
Dance Etc. will perform with other dancers from across the country, along with a live guest star in this nationally televised halftime show. In addition to this spectacular halftime show, dancers will take part in one of the largest dance conventions in the country.
For two days students will be taking classes in a variety of disciplines taught by some of the best and most sought-after choreographers in the industry.
Boyle said she was extremely proud to learn that her students were invited back for a second straight time.
"They were so well received [the first time]," Boyle said. "The fact that they thought that much of our students and our girls behaved themselves and did so well is absolutely thrilling for me."
Dance Etc. has had numerous performance opportunities on both a national and international level. In 2009, they were recognized by Bowl Games of America for their incredible level of talent and maturity as dancers.
For two years, they have been Guests of Cultural Alliance in China, and have performed with Disney. They also have an award winning hip-hop program.
Boyle's extensive teaching and choreography experience spans more than 30 years. She established Dance Etc. in 1981 and has received many prestigious awards, including "Choreographer of the Year Award" from the Alliance of Community Theaters, and her school has won the "Virginia Governor's School Award" for six years, including the last three years.
Dance Etc. is at 13590 Minnieville Road. For more information, call 703-878-1000 or visit danceetc.com.
Staff writer Kipp Hanley can be reached at 703-878-8062.
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement