Senior dance recital lights up the stage

For seniors Brandi Eddy, Haylee Garner, Octavia Price, Shannon Rivera, Gwen Scott and Katie Tricarico, their senior recitals represented the fruits of almost a lifetime of labor. The Senior Dance Showcase on April 23 was an opportunity for these girls to display what they had learned in choreography, style and life. Lighting up the stage with talent, they seized the moment with fervor and flair, opening up a window for the world to see into their hearts.

The showcase opened with an encouraging message from Dr. Clemente, who quoted Dr. Seuss’ Oh the Places You’ll Go, the dance show’s title. Shannon Rivera’s piece was first, entitled Paper Dolls. Shannon said her inspiration came from learning to appreciate role models and mentors, noting her mother in particular.

Haylee Garner’s Let Go, Let God piece was next. Before her performance, she dedicated it to her grandfather.

Katie Tricarico’s piece, The Journey, followed. Her dance uniquely interpreted the struggle between accepting grace and resisting temptation.

Brandi Eddy’s The Things We Go Through portrayed truth, courage, surrender, forgiveness and love. The third section was Brandi’s solo dance, and her gymnastic moves were great crowd pleasers.

Stepping Out was Octavia Price’s piece, which interpreted transition, an appropriate choice for the college audience. The final piece of the showcase was Gwen Scott’s A Piece of Me. This provided a whimsical contrast to the other more pensive themes. The vibrant colors, energetic dances and nostalgic allusions to childhood came together to make an upbeat finale.