On Feb. 6 through Feb. 8, the Branson community joined together to watch and participate in the annual dance concert, this year titled, “Heart & Soul.” There were performances on three nights, including routines from Dance I, II and III, Dance Performance Ensemble and Dance for Men. Students prepared for the concert throughout the fall semester. 

“We used the dance classes to learn the moves and prepare,” said dance student Isabel Little ‘28. 

In the week leading up to the performance, dancers had long dress rehearsals and time to practice onstage. The concert was fun and exciting for both the audience and performers. 

MJ Rodriguez ‘26, who is new to the dance program this year, said, “It was a really good experience and I learned a lot doing the show.” She added, “Everyone is supportive and really nice.”

The performances displayed many different styles of dance, including Bhangra, a traditional Indian dance, hip-hop and more. 

The concert and the preparation beforehand was choreographed and orchestrated by dance teacher Alex Escalante. 

“Alex is an incredible teacher and he helped me and other students to become the best versions of themselves,” said Little.

The dance concert was a major success this year, and Little attributes much of it to the crowd’s energy input.

“In general the crowd, especially on Friday night, contributes so much to how we dance, and to have all the students and community members come out was such a massive aspect of the dance show,” Little said.