The young dancers made their debut during the annual spring dance showcase featuring diverse choreography performed by students, faculty and staff.

The results of months of practices and high-energy choreography graced the Helm Fine Arts Center stage during St. Stephen’s recent annual Spring Dance Concert. Joining the stage for the very first time was the Middle School Dance Company featuring who performed to the song “Rainbow” by Kacey Musgraves.

First-time dancer Lottie Greig ’31 said the program is building her onstage confidence and fostering strong relationships.

“The show was a little nerve-wracking. At first, I joined to be with my friends because I thought it would be fun — and it really is,” said Greig.

Anjali Shaw ’31, who stopped taking dance classes outside of school after arriving at St. Stephen’s in 6th grade, joined the company as a 7th grader.

“It’s been really nice to come back to it and remember the joy it brought me,” said Shaw.

The inaugural company includes dancers of all levels in grades six through eight and is designed to prepare students for Upper School dance. Participants study ballet, jazz and contemporary dance during an eighth-period class and attend after-school rehearsals.

“I'm so proud of all the work that they have done this year, and I hope to continue this tradition for years to come,” dance instructor and choreographer Kassie Kelly told the crowd.

Other outstanding performances included 8th grade fine arts students, Chrysalis Dance Company, six Upper School soloists, three Dance Ensemble members, and a faculty/staff dance, showcasing hip-hop, contemporary, ballet, jazz and fusion styles. Senior Chrysalis member Emma Wicker ’26 choreographed her group’s piece to “Bitter Sweet Symphony” by The Verve. Alonzo-Hansen said she is most proud of how supportive the cast was of one another, and is grateful for the work everyone dedicated to the show’s success.

“Dance Ensemble, in particular, began working in August,” said Alonzo-Hansen. “This performance was their culminating project, and it was rewarding to see them reach the finish line.”

The large 35-member group performed spirited, dynamic choreography to music spanning decades, including Stevie Wonder, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Frank Sinatra, Liza Minnelli and Billie Eilish. Director of dance Bonnie Alonzo-Hansen said the concert featured the largest group of Spartans during her tenure on The Hill, including a record number of 18 Middle School students.

Back by popular demand was the 2nd annual faculty/staff dance, featuring dancing employees from various departments, ready to show off their Spartan spirit to Katy Perry’s “Firework.” Employees were decked out in school colors and ended the number with streamers, St. Stephen’s banners and flying Yonder pouches.

“From beginner to advanced dancers, from 6th graders to veteran faculty and staff members, this show created a generative space for very different populations in our community to dance!” said Alonzo-Hansen.

St. Stephen’s offers a variety of ways for Spartans of all ages to get involved in the SSES Dance Program through a range of classes, private lessons and the school dance company. Learn more.