Recital demonstrates wide array of dance styles
A range of talent was on display at the Guelph Gryphons’ annual dance recital, held on March 31.
Each dance class at the University took part in the recital, showcasing the wide variety of styles offered. The event also offered a chance to showcase the University’s newly opened fitness and recreation centre.
The performance was well attended, with a full crowd of families, friends, and other spectators, and had a late start as the organizers tried to fit more spectators in around the sides and squished onto the bleachers. The recital opened with tap dancers, tapping along to a medley of Bruno Mars songs. Next up was a seductive dance, which featured one of the largest groups of dancers that evening.
Introduction to ballet, line dancing, advanced ballet, and an introduction to contemporary dance followed.
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Advanced Highland dancing gave audience members a taste of traditional Scottish dance, while advanced hip-hop brought the show back to North America.
During a short intermission, dancers escaped their warm-up room to chat with family and friends who had come to support them.
The second half of the recital began with social dance, pop jazz, and more Highland dancing. A second seductive dance once again featured one of the largest groups of dancers, followed by contemporary, Latin dance, and finishing with a final round of hip-hop.
The event was a great chance for members of the dance classes to showcase what they’ve learned over the past semester. While the recital featured dancers from the winter classes, many of the dancers had also participated in the same class the previous fall.
“I’m a slightly dreadful dancer,” said Annie Krueger, member of the social dance class, “but it is honestly a really fun way to try something new. I had my first dance recital at age 20—my mom is thrilled.”The Gryphon dance recital also offered a great opportunity for students thinking about taking dance classes to preview what each type of class entails.
All proceeds from the event were raised in support of the United Way of Guelph and Wellington.
Photo by Tasha Falconer.