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ACT ONE
Conga
Performed by Grade 11 & 12
Choreographed by Lauren
IBDP Dance
Hickson
The infectious rhythms of “Conga,” by Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound Machine informs the way this dance bursts with energy, connection, and joy The movement celebrates rhythm as a shared language, portraying how music and movement can spark confidence, lift spirits, and create moments of collective brightness It reminds us that sometimes the simplest rhythms are what make us shine the most Conga is performed by the Grade 11 & 12 IBDP class as apart of their portfolio submission for the Performance component of the course. This piece was created a solo performance and developed into a group dance for tonights showcase
Nicest Kids In Town
Performed by Junior School Jazz Choreographed by Stephanie Lee
Set to “Nicest Kids in Town” from Hairspray, this high-energy piece showcases the confidence, character, and enthusiasm of our Junior School Activities Jazz group Through bold movements and expressive performance, the dancers capture the excitement of being seen, heard, and celebrated The dance conveys how young performers light up the stage through individuality, teamwork, and the joy of performing together
States of Matter
Choreographed by Kureha Kasahara
Performed by Bonnie Tang and Steffi Richardson
Just like water, our relationships can go through different states from chaotic individuals, the coming and going like the currents of the ocean or the complete trust and dependency we can have in one another. This piece manifests relationships through the abstract manner of how water flows, condenses, freezes featuring 3 sections of a gas phase, liquid phase and solid phase. Each phase is the manifestation of each state of matter using the imagery of the scientific model of atomic behaviour and the manifestation of water in the natural world
Secrets
Performed by Grade 9 Dance
Choreographed by
Lauren Hickson
This Grade 9 dance explores the idea of secrets; how they begin, how they spread, and how they change as they are retold Through layered movement, repetition, and manipulated motifs, the choreography reflects the way information shifts as it passes from person to person. The piece examines what happens when hidden truths are brought into the light, revealing the impact secrets can have on relationships, trust, and perception This piece was created as part of the Grade 9 UWCSEA Dance curriculum component of Performance
Bare Necessities
Performed by Infant Ballet
Choreographed by Stephanie
Lee
Set to “The Bare Necessities,” this charming ballet piece features our youngest performers as they take their first steps onto the stage. Through foundational ballet movements and playful storytelling, the dancers explore confidence, imagination, and the joy of moving to music This dance celebrates new beginnings, conveying how friendships help create lighting within our lives.
CONSTELLATIONS
Choreographed by
Camilla Merican, Chloe Deng and Yuk Nishioka
Our piece is a two-part journey inspired by the essence of constellations forming in the night sky. It begins with dancers drifting separately through a vast, dark space, like distant stars lost in their own world As the energy shifts, they are gradually pulled toward one another, their movements becoming more connected. By the end, they unite as one living constellation, showing how individual lights can come together to create something powerful and whole
Thunderstruck
Performed by the Middle School Contemporary Company
Choreographed by
Lauren Hickson
Utilising the energy of “Thunderstruck,” this piece explores the powerful relationship between lightning and thunder Sharp, dynamic movements and relationships between the dancers reflect flashes of light and bursts of sound, capturing the intensity and unpredictability of a storm. This work uses temporal and dynamic variations to show how even in darkness there is light and strength
Lost Boys
Performed by Junior School Contemporary
Choreographed by
Lauren Hickson
This piece draws inspiration from Peter Pan, exploring the pull between childhood wonder and the courage it takes to grow up Through lyrical, expressive movement, the dancers journey through moments of imagination, belonging, and self discovery. This dance evokes the quiet light found in dreaming, remembering, and choosing who we want to become, showing that sometimes, it is our inner spark that guides us home.
Special Two
Performed by Grade
10 Dance
Choregoraphed by Lauren
Hickson
This dance explores the changing bond and relationship between sisters, one that ebbs and flows through closeness, conflict, support, and shared history Through dynamic shifts in movement and energy, the dancers reflect moments of unity and distance, tension and reconciliation. This work sheds light on the quiet strength of sisterhood, revealing how these relationships evolve over time while remaining deeply connected at their core This piece was created as part of the Grade 10 UWCSEA Dance curriculum within the Performance component
Ancestry in a Clay Pot
Choreographed and Performed by
Zoe Micaela Parra Vizcaino
In the ancestral culture of the Kitu Karas, the deceased were traditionally buried in clay pots, gifting them a peaceful rest in the heart of the Pachamama. This piece begins with culture embedded in the pot itself, with pride and tradition. As colonization intervenes, the vase becomes a symbol of tradition, breaking apart, fracturing the connection to their land. Culture goes into pieces, so suddenly. Yet the strength of ancestral roots remains quietly in the echoes of altered identities and inherited mindsets The final section of this composition reflects the disconnection from ancestry over time, but also the desire to embrace it once again, to protect it from all dangers, and to try to honor it even when submerged in loss and pain
Don Q
Performed by HS & MS Ballet Company
Choreographed by Stephanie Lee
Bursting with energy, colour, and classical flair, this vibrant piece is inspired by the beloved ballet Don Quixote. The dynamic choreography captures the spirited atmosphere of a Spanish fiesta, where passion, humour, and celebration collide Performed by our Middle School and High School dancers, this work showcases strong technique, theatrical storytelling, and the joyful confidence that makes Don Quixote such a timeless favourite on the ballet stage
In Each Other’s Step
Choreographed by Samara Pesch
Performed byCoco Qiu, Jaime Cowan, Shivani Sarin
This dance explores the bond between siblings as they grow side by side mirroring movements, habits, and emotions Through moments of closeness and conflict, the piece reveals how differences shape their relationship while never breaking it. As one sibling moves into a new chapter of life, the dance reflects the deep dependence they share and the quiet ache of separation
If You Leave Me
Choreographed and performed by
Amelia Shen and Jessie Meng
This dance explores the coexistence and mutual exclusion between “light” and “dark”, inspired by the photo stimuli of a single candle in a dark room The two dancers will sometimes dance the same movements together, representing the interdependence of light and darkness, but quickly switch to contrasting movements, showing one ’ s tendency to be overpowered by another. On a deeper level, the two dancers represent two people in a relationship, and their interactions symbolize the instability and fragility of it
Fly Me To The Moon
Performed by Junior School Ballet
Choreographed by Stephanie Lee
Performed by our Junior School Ballet activity, this piece to “Fly Me to the Moon” reflects the timeless idea of living out your dreams Through soft balletic movement, the dance captures a sense of hope, ambition, and the courage to reach beyond what feels possible The work conveys the quiet glow that comes from daring to dream, reminding us that in reaching for something beyond ourselves, we often find the light that guides us
Marvellous Party
Performed by Grade 9 Dance
Choreographed by Lauren Hickson
Marvellous Party draws inspiration from the lively Charleston style of the 1920s Playing with syncopated rhythms and intricate footwork, the piece captures the glamour and exuberance of the era This work celebrates moments of joy, celebration, and self-expression, lighting up the stage with timeless steps and energy This performance was created as part of the Grade 9 UWCSEA Dance curriculum within the Performance component.
Hello!
Performed by Infant Creative Movement
Choreographed by Lauren
Hickson
Hello! is a joyful dance that celebrates the simple act of greeting one another in different languages. Brought to life by some of our youngest performers from our Creative Movement activity this piece uses gestures and expressive movement to portray the intent The dancers explore connection, communication, and curiosity about the world around them as well as with each other. The dance conveys how small moments of kindness and inclusion can shine brightly, reminding us that a warm welcome has the power to light up any space.
Bad Vibes
Performed by Junior School Hip Hop
Choreographed by Hafeez Hassan
Bad Vibes is all about shaking off the bad vibes and stepping into confidence With sharp moves, powerful formations, and plenty of swagger, the dancers show what it looks like to stand tall, stay strong, and not let negativity take over Packed with rhythm, personality, and fearless fun, this performance proves that bad vibes don’t stand a chance.
I Want To Break Free
Performed by Elevate Dance Company
Choreographed by Lauren
Hickson
Set to Queen’s iconic anthem I Want to Break Free, this powerful work explores the tension between conformity and self-expression, inspired by trailblazers such as Freddie Mercury and David Bowie Set on the London Underground, where countless lives pass in silence, the piece reveals the hidden identities we carry beneath the surface. As moments of restraint give way to liberation, the dance becomes a tribute to courage, individuality, and the freedom found in breaking boundaries.
The Elevate Dance Company is a new initiative of the UWCSEA Dance Programme The programme is designed to challenge and extend gifted and talented dancers who demonstrate exceptional aptitude in both creative and physical aspects of the art form This ensemble is committed to pushing the boundaries of dance artistry through ambitious, high-level work that fuses technical precision with imaginative exploration
ACT TWO
Le Freak
Performed by High School Jazz Company
Choreographed by Stephanie
Lee
Le Freak is a high-energy piece that explores and celebrates the disco era where the dance floor became a place of freedom, confidence, and pure joy. Bursting with bold rhythms and feel-good vibes, this dance captures the spirit of a time when music lit up the room and everyone was invited to shine.
Sophia
Choreographed by Sophia
Bithos
Performed by Satsuki Yano, Sisley Hendarto and Venice Liew
Break Away explores the impact of disrupting routine The piece begins with three dancers moving in unison within a circular formation, representing repetition and the predictability of everyday life As the pattern fractures, each dancer responds differently to the shift One struggles against the change, one continues within the familiar structure, and one finds freedom in the break away. Through contrasting dynamics and levels, the work examines how individuals cope with the uncertainty of breaking from the norm
The Chain
Performed High School Contemporary Company
Choreographed by Lauren Hickson
This piece explores the idea of connection how one action can spark another, creating a chain reaction that builds strength, momentum, and unity Through shifting formations and intertwined movement, the dancers reflect the resilience that comes from working together and supporting one another Yet as the choreography fractures and the “chain” breaks, the work reveals how quickly trust can unravel, and how fragile togetherness can be when one link is lost.
I Have A Voice
Performed by Grace Stockwell, Stella Love Soper, Cathy An, Jaime Cowan, Sisley Hendarto and Venice Liew
Choreographed by Lauren Hickson
I Have a Voice was apart of UWC Day celebrations and was inspired by this years theme “Voices for Peace.” This work traces generations of people finding their courage to speak out, showing how voices grow stronger with experience and solidarity Through layered movement and expressive storytelling, the dance celebrates resilience, hope, and the power of speaking up to create change, reminding us that every voice matters and can contribute to a more peaceful world
Ring Ring Ring
Choreographed by Scarlett Lay
This composition, inspired by the rapper, Tyler The Creator, takes a deep dive back to the revolutionary invention of the cell phone Showing the pivotal shift of culture to have global communication at just the palm of your hand. The excitement of relational reconnections through cell phones, blare through the catchy tunes and nostalgic dance moves featured throughout.
Layers of Her
Choreographed by Olivia Perez De Albeniz Illana
Performed by Luzia Lu, Samaya Atuk and Tanvi Ashokka
Inspired by the concept of a palimpsest, this piece explores how women ’ s voices and experiences are layered across time, never fully erased but constantly rewritten Drawing on the strength of Cleopatra, Joan of Arc, and Frida Kahlo, the choreography traces leadership, sacrifice, and self-expression as recurring imprints within female identity The dance reveals how women across generations carry, influence, and support one another In the final section, the dancers come together through canon, allowing each movement to echo through the group, highlighting shared experiences and collective strength
Lady M
Performed by Grade 11/12 IBDP HL Dance
Choreographed by
Lauren Hickson
This intense and dramatic piece delves into the world of Lady Macbeth, exploring the destructive greed for power and the consequences of ambition unchecked Through sharp, commanding movement and moments of sudden revelation, the dance captures the tension of carefully laid plans beginning to unravel When the unexpected strikes, the choreography illuminates the fragility beneath control, revealing how power, obsession, and desire can swiftly lead to chaos and downfall. This piece was created a solo performance and developed into a group dance for tonights showcase.
Choreographed by
In Search Of Him
Sisley Hendarto and Venice Liew
This contemporary work explores the experience of searching for guidance and stability during periods of emotional difficulty It explores the experience of lacking support in a world where connection seems effortless for others.
Satrurday
Choreographed by Ella Romain
Performed by Bea Wallace-Dunn, Erin Hall, Kerri, Bryden Marisa Aria Darul Kisai and Maya Moyalan
Unravel
Performed by Grade 10 Dance
Choreographed by
Lauren Hickson
Unravel is an introspective piece that explores the fragility of the mind and the feeling of losing control Using the metaphor of a thread, the dance explores moments of tension, strain, and release, showing how a single unraveling can echo through one ’ s mental state
The choreography aims to capture the delicate balance between composure and chaos, revealing the vulnerability, complexity, and emotional depth of the human experience.
I Found
Performed by Grade 11/12 IBDP Dance
Choreographed by Lauren
Hickson
I Found is an emotive piece that explores the vulnerability of being loved when you ’ re still learning how to believe in your own worth Through the motifs of reaching out and contracting into your self, the dance captures the inner conflict between longing for connection and fearing you don’t deserve it. The dance explores letting go of doubt and discovering the quiet courage it takes to receive what has been found
Choreographed by
Cindy Liu and Kate Gao
A tale about the faith of our life, just like light, it surrounds us, we know it's there, yet it is something we can see but can't touch Hopeless yet persistent, beautiful yet unreal, an unattainable virtual relationship.
But what is faith? It's the only truth we believe in, a thought of a distended memory
Because oh dear, the games we play
Meraki 虚拟
Black Cat
Performed by Grade 10 Dance
Choreographed by
Lauren Hickson
Black Cat is a high-energy piece that explores confidence, independence, and owning your power. With sharp dynamics and temporal variations this work captures the rebellious spirit of breaking free from expectations and stepping unapologetically into your own identity. Fast, fearless, and full of edge, this dance is a celebration of finding your strengths and letting them shine.
Performed
Fine Line
by Grade 9 Dance
Choreographed by
Lauren Hickson
This piece explores the tension between restraint and risk, those moments in relationships when someone crosses a line and personal boundaries begin to blur The dance portrays the delicate space between control and impulse, safety and desire. When these lines are crossed it demonstrates how limits can easily bend, and how transformation often begins the moment we dare to step beyond them
The Continuum
Choreographed by
Kaz Shiokawa
Continuum introduces four hip-hop-based pieces: core hip-hop, girls hip-hop, R&Binfluenced modern hip-hop, and commercial/open style, all connected through the sense of groove, movement, and musicality Instead of showing each style separately, the work frames them in a shared line to show how hip-hop shifts, adapts, and expands while still being connected at its core
Black Friday
Performed by Elevate Dance Company
Choreographed by Lauren Hickson
Black Friday is an emotional piece that explores the weight of mental struggle and the quiet loneliness that can exist beneath the surface of everyday life The use of collapsing motifs and moments of stillness, the dancers embody the feeling of being trapped inside one ’ s own mind while the world continues to move on around them As the dance unfolds it becomes a portrait of vulnerability and endurance, reminding us that even in darkness, there is strength in simply continuing.