Desert Mirage HS 2020

Feeling

MOVEMENT the

Dance, like many art forms helps us connect with one another, whether its on social media bonding over Tik Tok dances, or by dancing at your "primas" (cousin's) quinceañera; either way, we establish relationships with each other. Dancing brings out so much from within us, it helps us express ourselves, Senior, Ximena Castellanos said: "I really like the idea that a story doesn't always have to be told by using words. Through the East Valley Dance Project we were able to achieve that; we expressed ourselves without words, even if it was just for a few seconds." Every year in Desert Mirage; thanks to the collaboration with the McCallum Theater, an additional after school activity was added which was the East Valley Dance Project, this project allowed girls and boys to learn how dance professionally. Senior, Cindy Sanchez said: "One of my favorite memories from being a part of the East Valley Dance Project would be working with our mentors Chihiro San and Jennifer Backhaus, they helped me improve so much in my dancing, working with professionals really motivated me to continue in the performing arts!" Thanks to this opportunity students at Desert Mirage were able to experience new things, learn new useful qualities and create new memories and connections with their peers. Story by Rosa Benito.

"In the Moment"

"My favorite memory from the East Valley Dance Project was when we were practicing at the McCallum Theater right before practice because the place was beautiful and the other group members were very nice. I enjoyed learning all the movements and practicing with my group members and friends. I look forward to being part of the program next year! -Giselle Gonzalez Gr10 "My favorite memory from the Dance Project this year was when we were about to perform on the McCallum Theater stage. We started entering from the back of the stage and then we saw the other performers enter as well. They told us good luck, this made me feel proud of enjoying dance. I felt super happy being able to perform for other dancers as they sent us good luck from backstage!" -Anahi Flores Gr12 "Good Sportsmanship"

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East Valley Dance