Summer is the perfect time for experiencing new things, spending time with friends, and doing what you love, and that is exactly what students from the College Preparatory Dance Program did.
Senior Rachel Saacks, along with juniors Claire Colon and Madelyn Mullahey, attended the week-long summer intensive at John Carroll. Meanwhile, sophomores Emily Simmons, Hannah Silwick, and Maureen McMennamin experienced a week of college dance at the Mercyhurst University Summer Dance Experience in Erie, PA.
In Philadelphia, senior Emily O’Steen attended the three-week intensive at The University of the Arts. Freshman Aubrey Zerhusen participated in Sweetbird Productions at University of Maryland, and junior Cetta Redmer traveled to College of Charleston.
“A summer intensive is a small taste of what it is like to major in dance or be a professional dancer. You spend the weeks of the intensive dancing with dancers from around the country, of all experiences and all ages, and it is truly an amazing way to connect with other dancers,” said Rachel.
The duration of the experience is filled with hours of dancing, attending workshops, performing, and simply getting a taste of dance in a new setting and level. Summer intensives are a way for dancers to continue their training between seasons.
Hannah said, “Before my summer intensive, I hadn’t danced since school ended, so it really helped me knock off some rust. I also learned a lot from the teachers who furthered my dance knowledge and ability.”
Surrounded by dancers of all backgrounds from across the country, the biggest thing Rachel experienced was “an environment where everyone was striving for the best version of themselves.”
Dancing in any university or conservatory provides new perspectives, styles, and techniques.
Emily O’Steen explained, “I was able to delve into choreography and improvisation a lot at this intensive which really focuses on the artistry of dance. It was an area I hadn’t experimented much in before my three weeks away and I feel I benefited a lot from it.”
Cetta described how she “had two modern teachers during the intensive and they both had completely different classes.” Even within one genre of dance, the possibilities are endless, so dancers have the opportunity to figure out what they enjoy.
Dancers are drawn to intensives for many reasons, but for aspiring college or professional dancers, they are a way to help determine the right fit for their future. “Summer intensives are very helpful for dancers looking to go down the college dance path because it allows you to experience the faculty, environment, and rigor of the program you would be attending,” said Emily.
Aubrey said, “I chose my summer intensive because I was able to experience a big campus, dance and rehearse in college studios, and enjoy a new atmosphere while being able to express my love for dance.”
For Hannah, her favorite memory was game night with the girls in the dorm next to her. Although the girls live in Ohio, they still talk regularly.
In an industry as unique as dance, the connections made with those in the field play a vital role in future opportunities and careers. As summer wrapped up and the school year began, College Preparatory dancers will carry their experiences with them as they dance in the upcoming season.