Olympia High School offers many extracurricular programs and activities. We have a variety of clubs, events, sports, and more. Amongst all of these options, the dance program has been the talk of the town as of late. There are many different types of dance that our fellow peers practice such as ballet, jazz, and hip hop. These students rehearse about two times a week and learn a variety of dance styles.
Recently, multiple Titans associated with the dance program took a field trip to the Relevé Inspiring Student Excellence program, or RISE for short, at the Orlando Ballet School. “One fascinating thing was probably the beautiful and creative pieces of choreography we got to learn,” senior Marina Fernandes claimed. As these students deepen and explore their passion for dance they also are given the opportunity to watch and learn from other dancers while they perform. Junior Sarah Yapur commented that, “The dancers had great technique and clear movement, it was really impressive.” These students got to witness true emotion and elegance through the performances they watched. While on this field trip, our Titans were able to dress and feel like true ballerinas!
The dance company can be a big commitment, considering the field trips, practices, and performances. Let’s jump into how students balance school life with their extracurricular activities. Fernandes declared, “Being the President of the program, balancing dance and school does not become an issue. I do my school work at school so I can give dance my full attention after school.” Ensuring that they keep their priorities aligned while also still getting to do what they love provides more opportunities they can participate in. “With cheerleading, choir, dance, and other clubs I participate in, balancing my extracurricular activities can get difficult at times, but dance teaches me so much, it is worth it in the end,” senior Valentina Rosales shared. Our dance program has so much to offer and although it can be a big commitment at times, students who value this sport develop time management skills and learn to balance their commitments with their passions.
Overall, our dance program contributes more than just staying active, it lets students do what they love.
I was able to ask a few dance students what they would advise to someone just starting dance. Let’s see what they had to say. “Enjoy every moment and never forget why you started dancing in the first place,” junior Sarah Yapurr advised.“Time flies by, I love being part of a team with so much passion and dedication,” Rosales added. While Fernandes suggested, “If you love it, keep going! Dancing is more of a getaway in my mind and will help you escape and have fun.”
The dance program teaches you more than just the technique, it creates bonds among the peers and inspires teamwork, communication, and confidence. If you are debating on whether to join or not, listen to these students and participate in something you love!
