At this year’s dance concert—the first in the new Spieker Center for the Arts—our Middle and Upper School dancers joined forces for a lively lineup of pieces that span the decades.
The concert was dedicated to the incredible legacy of Jan Chandler—teacher, mentor, and “second mom” to many in our community. Jan dedicated 38 years of her life to Menlo, created the dance program, and reached thousands of students during her time here. Her enthusiasm for her work and devotion to her students is felt all over our campus, especially on our Spieker Center stage.
About Our Dance Program
Express yourself more freely, build confidence, and stimulate your mind while strengthening your body and exploring a mix of movement styles and choreography.
Here’s a glimpse of the spring 2021 Dance Concert, which was created and filmed during the pandemic. It was shot mostly outdoors around the campus as well as on the stage of the brand new Spieker Center for the Arts.
Performing Opportunities
There are three performing groups at Menlo: Knight Dancers (varsity), MidKnights (JV) and Knight Life (hip hop). All have auditions in early September and, except for Knight Life, dancers must be registered in Menlo dance classes. Knight Life performs at the Pep Rally, Valpo Bowl, and home football and basketball games. In the past, Knight Dancers have performed in San Francisco and at various corporate parties and events. All dancers perform in the annual Spring Dance Concert.
Courses
Dance I: Just Dance S1 OR S1 & S2
Designed for any level dancer, students will gain a solid foundation and appreciation for the love of dance! Throughout the year we will study multiple styles including jazz, contemporary, musical theatre, hip hop, and even TikTok dances. The focus of the course will be on the development of a technical foundation, understanding rhythm and musicality, strength and flexibility, choreography retention, and most importantly how to have FUN while moving your body! Class structure will include a warm-up designed around proper body alignment, across the floor movement, and choreography sequences focusing on applying proper technique and artistry. Students will collaborate with others and create their own choreography. Enrolled students will be expected to perform and participate in the Dance Concert. Watch a video overview of this course here.
Dance II: Advanced Dance S1 OR S1 & S2
Building upon the foundations of Dance I, students will further develop their technique and dive deeper into dance as an art form. Styles of dance that will be studied include jazz, contemporary, world styles, musical theatre, ballet, and hip hop. Classes will include warming-up, stretching, movement sequences across the floor, and learning choreography. Students will build skills to develop their artistic expression through improvisation and creating and analyzing choreography. Enrolled students will be expected to perform and participate in the Dance Concert.
Prerequisites for this course include Dance I or permission from the teacher.
Intro to Tap (FAX)(1S or 2S)
THIS IS PRIMARILY A 9TH GRADE CLASS AS IT IS PART OF THE A BLOCK FRESHMAN ARTS OPTION (FAX)
All levels welcome! In this semester-long course, students will learn different elements of tap including technique, movement, musical rhythm, tempo, and phrasing. The course will focus on the historical context required to develop the skills needed to practice and perform this popular dance form. Class structure will include warming-up, stretching, and learning choreography, with a focus on developing performance qualities. Students will be introduced to terminology, important historical events, people who contributed to tap, and its lasting impact on pop culture. Tap shoes will be provided to those who need them.
Dance Concert Video Highlights
Here’s a look at highlights from Menlo’s beloved all-school Dance Concert.
