New York New York recently became the motivating theme song for Company d. After seven years of weekly classes, long rehearsals, summer and winter workshops, performances, performances, performances, dancers were ready “… to be a part of it, New York New York”. The desire for the dancers to perform publically at a national level, to receive master level dance instruction, and to expand the dancers’ aesthetic education and cultural experience “in a city that never sleeps” was part of a vision and became a dream come true in September 2008. It is impossible to rate the best part of the dancer’s four day trip to New York. Every step the dancers took was with excitement, pride and their confidence grew taller and taller.
The dancers first night in the city struck a high note with their performance at the Dicapo Opera Theatre, an official off-Broadway venue, hosted by Luigi Jazz Centre. It was overwhelming to see the Company d dancers step-up to a New York audience, deliver a perfect performance and honor Luigi with their révérence to the song Somewhere.
Company dancers, who “never stopped moving” took classes with Luigi, the father of jazz dance and Francis J. Roach, choreographer and world renowned teacher. Dancers were comfortable and confident taking class with a varied group of New York dance students and professionals. On the third morning Liza Minnelli, one of Luigi’s long time students shared mirror space with Company d. It was class as usual stretching, bending and moving to the “rhythm of the body” with Luigi. However at the conclusion of class it was a show-stopper when Company d was extended the invitation to perform a piece for Liza and she in turn sang and danced New York New York for the class! WOW what a way to start the day.
Not to miss a beat the dancers not only attended several Broadway shows but toured the Metropolitan Opera and were invited backstage at Mary Poppins and Altar Boys. They interacted with the cast and crew and learned about the behind the scenes technology of theatre.
Bringing the curtain down, to a perfect weekend, the dancers were part of the featured entertainment for the National Down Syndrome Society 14th Annual Buddy Walk. “The audience was floored by their artistic talents and their chemistry together and the NDSS staff was equally as impressed with their professionalism and graciousness”, stated Pamela Sandonato, Director of Development for the NDSS.
Applause, standing ovation and a choir of bravos for the Company d dancers and our generous supporters who made it possible. A grateful heart to the DSAM Board who had the confidence that Company d could make this great leap.