Senior Colin SanGiacomo finds every opportunity he can to be on a stage performing. The Norwood High triple threat has been working with Ensemble Performing Arts company for 10 years including acting with theater companies such as Riverside Theater Works, Greater Boston Stage Company, the Company Theater, and the Stadium Theater.

When he's not busy rehearsing, he's working as a choreographer at The Dance Center in Dedham. He's been working there for almost a year.  He teaches young children and teenagers, specializing in hip-hop and jazz. 

“The things I like most about the job are the kids and being able to help them grow in something they enjoy,” SanGiacomo said. 

“ I originally got this job because I was in a dance show about a year ago, and the owner of this studio happened to see it. She saw me afterward and asked if I happened to teach dance. I taught beginner dance for a whole at the studio where I grew up, so I had that experience. This was a new opportunity to be a full-time instructor. I went through a few interviews and mock classes and got the job,” he said.

His work schedule looks full with teaching classes on  Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, He teaches a total of 8 different dance classes that are 45 minutes to an hour long. 

“I was encouraged to work there because I wanted to strengthen my teaching abilities along with my dance training. I strongly believe that you become a better dancer by being able to teach it properly and by knowing the correct tools and skills you need to be successful in that field,” SanGiacomo said.

 “When I come into work, I have to take my binder, gather the children,  and bring them into “Studio 3”. Once everybody gets settled, we take attendance followed by a good strength and warm-up session. Depending on the age group, we play dance-based games to expand any energy, and then we always work on the dance routine that their specific class is focusing on so they are ready for the dance recital in June,” he said.

Colin's future is bright; he will be attending Boston Conservatory to major in musical theater. He will continue dancing throughout college.