Dance is a form of art that has been around for a very long time, and it’s one of the most expressive and creative ways to communicate. There are many different styles of dance, each with its unique history and way of telling a story. Ballet is one of the most classical and formal dance styles. Hip-hop is a style of dance that originated in African-American communities in the 1970s, and it’s known for its high-energy moves. Jazz is a more upbeat and energetic dance style. No matter what your preferred dance style is, there are many opportunities to get involved with and learn.

Pennridge High School has a dance team of its own, and they went all the way to nationals last season. They won third overall, second place in the mix and second place in Hip-Hop during their time there. Pennridge plays at a varsity level and competes with many different schools. Their season ended in February and will start again next winter. Laney Minko, a student on the dance team, has been dancing since she was two years old. When asked what she loves most about the team and the activity, she responded that she loves “showing people what we work so hard on” and spending time with her closest friends while they support each other. Laney hopes to finish the rest of her high school career on the dance team and then join a dance club at her college. When asked, “How do you compete?”, Minko explained, “It’s like an equal mix of I’m so excited, and I’m so nervous,” but her teammates surround her with overwhelming positivity, which makes her excited more than anything. One of the most exciting things about dance is the way it’s constantly evolving and changing.

New dance styles are always in the making, and dancers continuously push the boundaries of what’s possible. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer, there’s always something new to learn. While talking with Nicky Reid, the team’s head captain of the PHS Dance Team, she encouraged, “There are so many girls on the team who have just improved exponentially; if you want to try it out, just try it out.” Reid takes her role as head captain very seriously, and she tries to be a good role model, someone that incoming freshmen can look up to. Reid believes it’s not always about being the best dancer, but being kind to everyone is just as important. Also, when asked about the coaching and how the coach, Danielle Dickinson, has helped throughout the season, Reid explained how Dickinson is responsible for 90 percent of the choreography. She is terrific at keeping the team a family and upholding traditions. She also holds a week-long camp right before the start of school, where the team can bond and improve their skills.

Overall, dance is an art form that has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for a fun way to express yourself, connect with others, or stay active, dance is a great choice. So why not give it a try?

Source:
@phsdance.team on instagram
https://www.pennridgerams.org/main/teamschedule/id/3702244/seasonid/4725988
@PennridgeDance on twitter
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-dickinson-3a476a52
https://www.dictionary.com/browse/dance
https://uk.harlequinfloors.com/en/news/popular-types-of-dance-list-of-top-dance-genres
https://www.varsity.com/uda/school/competitions/high-school-nationals/