Encore: Brentwood’s Evening of Dance
This year's evening of dance was an unforgettable night of skill, enthusiasm, and unity in the Killy Theatre for two nights. Students, staff, friends, and families came together to see dancers display the months of effort put into the production, and who gave it their all on the stage. From the electric opening number, One Night Only, to the swaggy final performance, Supa Flee, Brentwood dancers lit the dance floor on fire and left audience members in awe of the artistry.
As with all pregame rituals, dancers engaged in a lively warm-up that unites and bonds dancers before the big performance. Ms Rea, dance teacher and creator of Encore, said: “I am so proud of all of the dancers this year, we have many good memories to look back on!” Performers ruled the stage with contagious energy, establishing the mood for the rest of the event. The enthusiasm behind the scenes set the tone for the night brilliantly and pumped up the dancers. The warm-up is the last time before the performance for all dancers in the program to band together one last time, sharing words of encouragement or going over dances to ensure they are perfect. As the music blares in the studio, and all the nervous energies starts to get replaced with excitement, dancers can share a bittersweet moment. As every last muscle was stretched and the best hype songs played, the dancers collectively agree they are ready to do this thing.
As the show progressed, the audience members were delighted with a wide range of stunning performances, ranging from deep and moody contemporary solos to upbeat and hype hip-hop group dances. These dances highlighted various styles and feelings, and showcased each dancer's style. Every performance showcased endless hours of practice, collaboration, and commitment, resulting in the audience erupting in applause after each performance. Gizelle M, Mack ‘28, left the audience in awe with her showstopping solo, Viola, stating, “There is something so special about dancing to a piece of music I connect so deeply with, especially with so much emotion and passion.”
The Grade 12s had a highly emotional evening, as this was their last time performing on Brentwood’s stage. Bidding farewell to the Grads was executed beautifully, with lovely bouquets of flowers handed to them and heartfelt hugs from the younger students. Their dedication and guidance in the program have motivated younger students and influenced them throughout their dance careers. Ainsley L, Dance Captain, Hope ‘26, performed an emotional, beautiful solo filled with skill and technicality. “It was so great walking off the stage, and having all the younger students come and hug me, it was a reminder of how special the Brentwood dance program is.”
Encore was a celebration of hard work, friendship, and artistic expression. People cheered, people were touched, and it was clear to us audience members how fortunate we are to have such a hardworking program. As the curtains closed and the applause continued, the dancers were left with the realization that this show would now remain a cherished memory.
I would like to thank Ms Rea, Ms Britton-Foster, Ms Widenmaier, Ainsley, and all the wickedly talented Brentwood dancers for putting on a show that we will never forget!
Lila C, Hope ‘26