Newsletter

May 2026

Dear ELAPA Families, Faculty, and Supporters,

It’s been a busy and exciting two months in the Dance Department as we’ve moved through the spring semester. We’re excited to share highlights and updates from recent events, along with a look at what’s ahead.

Spring Dance Concert – A Department in Bloom

We celebrated a highly successful Spring Dance Concert, Something New, during the month of March. Each night of the performance ran more smoothly than the last, reflecting the students’ growth, discipline, and commitment to their craft.

We extend our sincerest thanks to everyone who attended. Your presence made a meaningful difference—students shared how supported and encouraged they felt, which truly allowed them to dance their hearts out on stage.

A special recognition goes to the ELAPA Dance Company, who rose to the challenge of performing multiple pieces while mastering quick costume changes and maintaining performance quality throughout. Their professionalism and resilience were evident.

Our Hip Hop team, Rhythm Impact, also brought incredible energy and style to the concert. Their performances in hip hop, house, and groove-based choreography added depth and diversity to the show, strengthening the program as a whole. Thank you to Coach Liz and Team!

Field Trip Reflections 

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater – Dorothy Chandler Pavilion

In April, our students had the incredible opportunity to attend a performance by the world-renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. For many, it was their first time experiencing a professional dance company in this iconic venue. Students were deeply inspired by the choreography and emotional expression, with every student rating the experience 5 out of 5 and recommending it for future dancers.

When reflecting on what resonated most, students consistently highlighted the choreography—the movement and dance vocabulary—and the emotional expression of the dancers.

Loyola Marymount University

ELAPA’s Dance Department was honored to be invited to attend the LMU Community Dance Project this year. A huge thank you to Professor KJ Wade for welcoming our students and providing this incredible opportunity.

Students enjoyed performances by LMU’s African Music Ensemble, directed by Dr. Divine Gbagto, as well as dance works including Lotus Alerte’s Implosion and KJ Wade’s Res(t)ilience. They also received a tour of the LMU campus and Dance Department, giving them a glimpse into collegiate dance life. 

Learn more about this here.

This experience was inspiring, eye-opening, and a meaningful reminder of what’s possible through dedication and artistry.

Looking Ahead – Events to read about in our next newsletter!

We are excited for what’s coming next:

• Final performances by ELAPA Dance Company & Rhythm Impact

  • Senior Night - Underclassmen take the lead with choreographing on our very own Seniors

  • Art Conference Cocoanut Grove Theater - Where students will present in front of LAUSD & District Leaders.  

  • Rhythm Impact will be performing at Versa-Style’s 21st Festival

• ELAPA Graduation

In the Studio Now

Dance classes are currently preparing final choreography, building performance skills, and refining technique as we head into our end-of-year showcases.

As we approach the end of the year, we are proud of the continued growth, artistry, and dedication our students demonstrate every day.

Thank you for your ongoing support of our Dance Department and for helping us uplift the next generation of artists and leaders.

With appreciation,

Ms. J. Sanmarti

ELAPA Dance Department

March 2026

Hello Dancing Toros Parents and Community,

We are proud to share that our Black History Month Assembly on February 25th was a tremendous success! Students did an outstanding job collaborating and preparing a powerful presentation. We are so proud of their focus and growth.

Our Spring Dance Show, “Something New,” is right around the corner! We are excited to share new choreography and highlight the artistic growth our students have demonstrated this semester. We hope you will join us in supporting their hard work! Show Contracts outlining expectations, rehearsal commitments, and important details will be sent home with students this week. Please review, sign, and return promptly.

Important Show Dates

To ensure a smooth and professional production, please note the following required dates:

• Tech Rehearsal: Monday, March 16 (after school)

• Dress Rehearsal: Tuesday, March 17 (after school)

• School Assembly Performance: Wednesday, March 18 (Time TBD – please follow our social media platforms for updates)

Show Dates

Thursday, March 19
Open House: 5:00 – 7:00 PM
Show begins at 7:00 PM

Friday, March 20
Show begins at 6:00 PM

Volunteers Needed

If you’re available to help with Tech, Dress, or show nights, please reach out to me directly at jessica.sanmarti@lausd.net. Your support makes a difference! 

Upcoming Fieldtrip

Selected students will attend a performance by Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Eligible students have demonstrated strong participation and positive citizenship. We’re excited for them to experience professional concert dance at the highest level.

Alumni Spotlight
Versa-Style Street Dance Company — founded by Jackie Lopez (Miss Funk) and Leigh Foaad (Breeze-lee) — includes multiple ELAPA alumni and continues to uplift Hip Hop culture and our community.

They will present “Tribute: Guardians of Street Dance” on March 13 at the Carpenter Performing Arts Center at California State University, Long Beach.

We encourage you to attend and support this valued partnership with our ELAPA Dance Team.

Thank you for supporting our Dancing Toros! We look forward to seeing you at Open House and at Something New!

With gratitude,

Ms. J. Sanmarti

ELAPA Dance Department

February 2026

Hello Dancing Toros Parents!

I am excited to introduce myself as ELAPA Magnet’s new Dance Teacher. My name is Ms. Sanmarti (students may also call me Ms. J), and I am honored to join the Torres East LA Performing Arts Magnet community.

With over 20 years of dance experience—beginning at Hollywood Performing Arts Magnet High School and continuing through the University of California, Irvine—I am passionate about helping students grow in technique, confidence, and self-expression.

Our Dance Department has already been busy this year! Students have performed for middle school recruitment tours, participated in Hispanic Heritage Month, presented work at another school, and represented ELAPA at the California Dance Festival—taking master classes with Versa-Style Dance Company and Kin Davagian of the Lester Horton Legacy, and performing that same evening. We are now preparing for our Black History Month presentation and the Spring show titled “Something New” in March.

I believe deeply that the power of the arts can transform lives. At Torres, I am committed to building a strong, inspiring Dance Department where students feel seen, challenged, and empowered—both in the studio and on stage.

We have also launched a new Dance Department website and social media page. Please be sure to follow and check these platforms regularly for updates, performance information, and celebrations of student work.

I look forward to completing a productive, creative, and joy-filled year together!

Thank you, 

Ms. J. Sanmarti