CHS Dance Company 'driven to be good'
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No Comments [ Add Comment ]By KIMBER HUNT
Standard-Examiner correspondent
The Clearfield High School Dance Company consists of 17 outstanding performers that have auditioned from all three grades and are described by their dance teacher and adviser as "driven."
Michelle Johnson, who has spent 23 years in public education and 16 years at Clearfield teaching drill and dance, says that this year's group is especially unique.
"They work hard, they have no animosity towards one another, their attendance is great, and they are really driven to be good at what they do," said Johnson.
The group shares an emphasis on concert performances rather than competitions. Modern dance is taught as an art form peppered with jazz, lyrical, hip-hop, and ballet.
Most of the numbers are choreographed by the members of the Dance Company along with a few pieces taught by guest choreographers brought in each year.
Male performers are also a part of Clearfield's history. For the past several years, the company has enjoyed the enthusiasm young men bring to the group.
"It's fun to have boys involved," said Johnson. "There are so many things you can do in regards to lifts and things that girls just don't have the upper body strength to do; they're truly fearless!"
"And truthfully," adds Johnson, "The boys are the smart ones. Who wouldn't love being in a class with all girls?"
The group is focusing on the annual fall concert that will be held at the school on Nov. 21. Immediately following the concert, the company will turn its attention to perfecting each number in anticipation of its annual Celebrations concert that will be held on Dec. 18 at Peery's Egyptian Theater in Ogden. The last of the performances will be held at the spring concert.
The Celebrations performance will include numbers from Ben Lomond, Davis, and Freemont High Schools as well.
"We base the theme on children's literature and Christmas traditions celebrated from around the world," said Johnson.
The highlight of the Celebrations performance is the traditional live candle dance choreographed to Manheim Steamroller's "Silent Night."
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