Press release from Red Bank Regional High School
The “Season of Lights” may have given way to the winter doldrums, but on the evening of Wednesday, January 13, the Visual and Performing Arts Academy dance majors of Red Bank Regional High School will be “Dancing in the Dark” during a special event that shines a spotlight on their multi-faceted talents.
Scheduled for 7 pm inside the RBR theatre, the annual Winter Dance Showcase features 18 pieces performed by the 32 VPA dance majors in a variety of genres, including contemporary, modern, jazz and ballet. Most pieces are choreographed by students — including a special tap number to Rihanna’s “Dancing in the Dark,” organized by sophomore Rachel Kline of Red Bank — with two pieces created by professional dancers and choreographers Kimberly Labriola and Noah Gouldsmith, and several by RBR teacher Cara Scacco.
Senior Anna Bongiorno of Avon believes the ability to choreograph in the VPA sets it apart from all other professional dance programs in the area. For the showcase, Anna has choreographed the finale featuring the Junior and Senior dancers, to the Black Eyed Peas song “Rock That Body.” Anna is currently applying to colleges with dance teams in mind so she can follow her passion for performing.
“I like that I have been exposed to so many other genres in dancing and had the opportunity to learn with a variety of instructors.” says senior Mya Sims of Asbury Park, who chose to choreograph a jazz number to Beyone’s “Schoolin’ Life” for the Showcase, adding that “dancing every day has really made me be a better dancer.”
Tickets to the January 13 Winter Dance Showcase are $10 for adults and $5 for senior citizens and children, and can be purchased at the door. All RBR students are free with student ID. For more information, contact [email protected], or call (732)842-8000, ext. 1477.
