From the Charleston to the Flamenco, students from Years 7 – 12 have been busy rehearsing in preparation for the first annual Santa Maria Dance afternoon, which was held on Sunday 8 September.

With two sold-out performances for family and friends, the dancers did not disappoint. The girls’ energy and dedication shone through in all of the performances. The Dance and Drama staff are immensely proud of the Year 12 ATAR Dance students and all of the performers for their professionalism, commitment and positive energy on the day. Here is what some of the girls had to say about the day.

My favourite part of the night was the improvisation piece. In this piece there were six dancers from my Year 11 ATAR Dance class and two from the Year 12 class. We had no prepared routine and had to make up movement on the spot, as well as offering and accepting movement from the other dancers to create an interactive, entertaining and enjoyable performance. Improvisation always extends me out of my comfort zone, and improvising in front of an audience is scary, challenging but also very rewarding. Sophie Molony, Year 11 Frayne

Dance Day was a highlight of the year for many dancers in the school. It gave us the opportunity to perform for our family and friends. Having worked hard all year in a multitude of different dance styles, it allowed us the opportunity to showcase our hard work and dedication. Coming to a very stressful time in Year 12, Dance Day provided me an opportunity to have fun performing and relaxing before the final exams.  Madeleine Haines, Year 12 Byrne I have been involved in many dance concerts and performances, but this one was particularly different and enjoyable. It had a lively atmosphere with dancers from Years 7-12. The day was so enjoyable, and I had so much fun spending the day with girls in my Year group. I learnt so much on the day and I grew so much as both a dancer and performer.   Zoe Donovan, Year 9

Dance Day was a great day for all of the students participating. We started off by doing a whole dance group warm up on the Figure 8, run by Mrs Murray which was loads of fun. We then had our tech rehearsal. We got to sit in the theatre and watch all the dances, then performed our dances to the teachers and other dancers. I had so much fun and I can’t wait for next year!   Charli Wild, Year 8 Byrne This year I was lucky to be a part of the first ever Dance Day at Santa Maria. I feel so privileged to be involved in it as it was an awesome opportunity and it was so much fun spending time with my friends and performing to our family. Emily Barker, Year 10 Frayne

On Dance Day we performed in two sell-out shows in front of our friends and family members. It was a thrilling sensation and a very enjoyable experience. Overall, the early morning starts, and perseverance shown by everyone resonated in the success of the day and proved to be a joyous occasion for all. Chanelle Jackson, Year 7 Frayne