ShenCo Labyrinth (the class of 2023 Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance and Bachelor of Arts in Dance majors) participated in professional development trips to New York City and Los Angeles, California, during Shenandoah University’s winter break.
New York City
Dance students attended classes at notable dance studios including Broadway Dance Center, Steps on Broadway and Peridance Center with teachers Jason Williams, Daniel Gold and Mike Esperanza. They were also able to attend the “Christmas Spectacular” starring the Radio City Rockettes where Shannon Giles ’16 (Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance) was performing in his third contract as an ensemble dancer.
Los Angeles, California
Students attended classes at notable dance studios including Millennium Dance Complex, TMilly TV Studio and Stomping Ground L.A. with teachers Dana Foglia, Kaela Faloon and Sam Nelson. They were also able to meet with Aubrey Lawrence ’15 (Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance, Bachelor of Arts in English), Dani Maloney ’17 (Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance), Courtney Friedersdorf ’19 (Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance), and Kati Freeman ’21 (Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance), where they received invaluable advice and mentorship. The students were also able to see Freeman perform with “Sesame Street Live” at the Long Beach Performing Arts Center Terrace Theater while she was on tour.
The trip was curated by Adjunct Assistant Professor of Dance Tiffanie Carson, M.F.A. These professional development experiences were made possible through student fundraising efforts plus assistance from the Shenandoah Conservatory Dean’s Circle, student affairs division and other generous donors.