NW Valley Times

Mar 20 2024

Dance students at Grand Canyon University showcased their talent and dedication in the spring Student Spotlight Dance Concert, titled “The Thread,” held in Thunderground. The performance featured a variety of styles from contemporary to post-modern, ballet, jazz, hip-hop, and tap, with each piece reflecting the unique experiences and emotions of the student choreographers.

Crystal Fullmer, the artistic director of the concert, highlighted the diversity of the show, stating, “This show is a journey because it is so many different choreographers, so it is different thought processes.” The performances ranged from deep and introspective to joyful and fun, offering the audience a glimpse into the multifaceted nature of life.

Julianne Pankau, a sophomore dance major, expressed her desire for the audience to interpret the pieces in their own way, saying, “I want them (the audience) to come to the show and take their own meaning away from it.” Pankau also shared a personal testimony through her choreography, reflecting on the theme of letting go and finding growth in surrendering to God's plan.

Senior dance major Johanna Losieau shared her gratitude for being selected to perform, emphasizing the significance of the event in allowing dancers to express themselves through movement. She stated, “It is a blessing to be picked to perform. This show really gives a perspective into our world."

Joy Palmer, another student choreographer, expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to showcase her work alongside her peers, remarking, “Everyone’s expression is valid and beautiful in its own way. It’s a huge honor to be picked to share my work for the last time and be on stage with everyone."

The dedication and hard work of the dance majors were evident in their performances, with each dancer bringing their unique storytelling and creativity to the stage. The audience, filled with supporters and enthusiasts, cheered on the performers, acknowledging the months of preparation and rehearsal that went into the final Student Spotlight Dance Concert.

As the curtain closed on “The Thread,” it was clear that the dance students had truly dazzled on stage, leaving a lasting impression with their passion for the art form and their individual voices shining through in each performance.