Written By: Isabella Jolicoeur 

The Winter Student Choreography Showcase is an annual RCDS event, facilitated by the Dance With a Purpose Club and the Cedar Street Dance Company. The showcase is held to raise money for Dancing Dreams: a nonprofit organization that provides dance lessons to children with physical and medical challenges that prevent them from joining classes in their community. The donations made through this performance allow the Dance With a Purpose Club to fulfill its mission, utilizing dance to create a positive, service-driven impact

This year, the showcase is once again being held in the black-box theater on Friday, December 13. The dancers and choreographers have been tirelessly working to create their pieces since September. 

From making music selections, choreographic choices, costume decisions, and lighting requests, this is a truly student-driven process, and it allows students to learn so much about the choreographic process. Samantha Lee ‘25 is currently preparing for her fourth showcase, and while initially she faced challenges, such as struggling to choose a song, she thoroughly enjoyed the experience. She expressed, “Through choreography, I truly feel like I learn so much about myself. The freedom to create and to be the vehicle that delivers my art has revealed so many different parts of me—different movement qualities, accents, and emotions.”  In addition, Cedar Street captain Alyssa Chu ‘25 stated that in choreographing her piece, she has “become more aware of the theory of dance composition” and learned tactics to strive toward a common theme.

For the student dancers, participating in the showcase is more than just a chance to perform. It’s an opportunity to use their passion for dance to make a positive impact.

The event will feature a total of ten diverse dance pieces, showcasing a wide range of styles, including contemporary, ballet, and jazz. Each performance offers something unique, reflecting the varied interests and talents of the student choreographers. The dancers and choreographers are incredibly excited to showcase their efforts and support this cause. 

Ultimately, the Winter Student Choreography Showcase is not only a celebration of dance but also a reminder of the power of art to bring people together and support important causes. Both Lee and Chu encourage students to attend!