National Honors Society for Dance Arts
NORTHWESTERN HIGH SCHOOL CHAPTER
Presents:
November 8, 2024 @ 7 PM
Justice Auditorium
Northwestern High School
7000 Adelphi Rd.
Hyattsville, MD 20782
Bayardo Martinez, Dance Department Director
Program
Llorona
School: Northwestern High School, VPA
Choreographer: Bayardo Martinez
Performers: Luisen Asanji, Nigisti Bohadgo, Brianna Brewley, Jazmyne Cesar, Kimora Goodwine, Niyell Jones, Louisetta Koh, Shenoa Medina, Brianna Moscoso, Jeanna Parrish, Ressa Pinnock, Mariana Ramos, Makyra Turner
Dance Style: Contemporary
Music by: Andres Henestrosa
Choreographer's Notes: This piece draws inspiration from the poignant love story of a young couple during the Mexican Revolution. As La Llorona (the Weeping Woman) wanders in mourning for her lost husband, she clings to the hope of one day reuniting with him beyond the horizon in the afterlife. In celebration of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), this dance serves as a reminder to embrace the belief that souls return to reunite with their beloved.
Notas del Coreógrafo: Esta pieza se inspira en la conmovedora historia de amor de una joven pareja durante la Revolución Mexicana. Mientras La Llorona deambula en duelo por su esposo perdido, se aferra a la esperanza de reunirse con él algún día más allá del horizonte en la otra vida. En celebración del Día de los Muertos, esta danza nos recuerda abrazar la creencia de que las almas regresan para reunirse con sus seres queridos.
Golden Time of Day
School: Thomas G. Pullen Arts Academy, CPA
Choreographer: Kristen Jones-Jackson
Performers: Annabella Adeigbe, Haley Barnes, Katelyn Brown, Eden Claxton, Cambridge Grimes, Malani Hargrove, Harley James, Vinyse Mills, Legacy Pyatt, Lanaya Rollins, Jalyn Turner
Dance Style: Jazz
Music by: Frankie Beverly & Maze
Choreographer's Notes: When the sun hits your face and shines a radiant gold, that's the Golden time of day. Soft winds, beautiful blue sky without a care in the world breezing by, that's the golden time of day. As we pay tribute to Frankie Beverly with feel good grooves, we want you to catch & move with that feel good groove too, right here in your Golden Time of Day.
Notas del Coreógrafo: Cuando el sol golpea tu rostro y brilla con un brillo dorado, ese es el momento dorado del día. Vientos suaves, un hermoso cielo azul sin ninguna preocupación por el mundo que pasa, ese es el momento dorado del día. Mientras rendimos homenaje a Frankie Beverly con ritmos que te hacen sentir bien, queremos que tú también captes y te muevas con ese ritmo que te hace sentir bien, aquí mismo, en tu hora dorada del día.
Lest we Forget
School: Laurel High School
Choreographer: Keittra Casimir
Performers: Morgan Benjamin-Clarke, Bryan Binney, Na'shayla Cusseaux, Mariyah Edmiston, Seven Ford, Glory John, Denise Nolan, Taylin Oates, London Rawls, Dahlia Sucre, Emily Ventura Recinos, Aubri Ward, Tikii Winn
Dance Style: Afro Modern
Music by: Sons of Kemet
Choreographer's Notes: Lest We Forget ignites the stage channeling the enduring spirit of our ancestors. This piece weaves rhythmic, Orisha-inspired movement capturing both resilience and reverence in every beat. Dancers embody the fire, strength, and unbreakable will of those who came before, celebrating heritage and keeping ancestral voices alive.
Notas del Coreógrafo: Lest We Forget enciende el escenario canalizando el espíritu perdurable de nuestros antepasados. Esta pieza teje un movimiento rítmico inspirado en Orisha que captura tanto la resiliencia como la reverencia en cada ritmo. Los bailarines encarnan el fuego, la fuerza y la voluntad inquebrantable de quienes vinieron antes, celebrando la herencia y manteniendo vivas las voces ancestrales.
My Name is
School: Bladensburg High School
Choreographer: Marcia Witters
Performers: Victoria Adebisi, Jylene Datiz, Sandra Elotl, Shalita Patterson
Dance Style: Modern Jazz
Music by: MeShell NdgeoOcello
Choreographer's Notes: This is a piece about the the different roles that we may play as women. Though we may lead different lives we are all Strong, Courageous, Seductive & Powerful.
Notas del Coreógrafo: Este es una pieza de baile sobre los diferentes roles que podemos desempeñar como mujeres. Aunque llevemos vidas diferentes, todos somos fuertes, valientes, seductores y poderosos.
2020
School: Thomas G. Pullen Arts Academy, CPA
Choreographer: Kristen Jackson-Jones
Performers: Bailey Burtis, EdynBrooke Broussard, Raegen Coby, Zoey Collins, Dream Evans, Skylyn Herrien, Peyton Jones, Simone Pair, Rileigh Peterson, Kira Roy, Symone' Todd
Dance Style: Contemporary
Music by: Chantel Cofie
Choreographer's Notes: 2020 was the year our lives changed as whole. We entered a pandemic, lost connection with our loved ones & watched many acts of violence impact our community with a heavy blow. Through it all, we've remained steadfast for change & a brighter tomorrow. With strong & sharp movements along with fluidity & awareness of self, you will feel elevated, stimulated & inspired to persevere as our community has done time & time again.
Notas del Coreógrafo: 2020 fue el año en que nuestras vidas cambiaron por completo. Entramos en una pandemia, perdimos la conexión con nuestros seres queridos y vimos muchos actos de violencia impactar a nuestra comunidad con un duro golpe. A pesar de todo, nos hemos mantenido firmes en el cambio y en un mañana mejor. Con movimientos fuertes y agudos junto con fluidez y conciencia de uno mismo, se sentirá elevado, estimulado e inspirado para perseverar como lo ha hecho nuestra comunidad una y otra vez.
Echoes
School: DuVal High School
Choreographer: Felicia Jamison
Performers: Jocelyn Coppedge, Tracy Fetela, Marlene Fokam , Andy Sandoval, Nataly Rodriguez, Kianna Givans, Maria Meneses
Dance Style: Modern
Music by: Oliver Henry
Choreographer's Notes: Echoes is a captivating student-choreographed piece that explores the reverberations of memory, emotion, and movement. Through innovative and diverse dance styles, the piece weaves together personal narratives and collective experiences, echoing the voices of past moments and the rhythms of the present. Each movement captures the delicate balance between the fleeting and the enduring, as dancers navigate the space between silence and sound, stillness and motion. Echoes invites the audience to reflect on the lasting impact of experiences and the subtle ways they shape us, resonating long after the final note fades.
Notas del Coreógrafo: Echoes es una cautivadora pieza hecho por estudiantes que explora las reverberaciones de la memoria, la emoción y el movimiento. A través de estilos de danza innovadores y diversos, la pieza entrelaza narrativas personales y experiencias colectivas, haciéndose eco de las voces de momentos pasados y los ritmos del presente. Cada movimiento captura el delicado equilibrio entre lo fugaz y lo duradero, mientras los bailarines navegan por el espacio entre el silencio y el sonido, la quietud y el movimiento. Echoes invita al público a reflexionar sobre el impacto duradero de las experiencias y las formas sutiles en que nos moldean, resonando mucho después de que la nota final se desvanece.
Beat It
School: Northwestern High School, VPA
Choreographer: Jenna Nelson
Performers:
Dance Style: Commercial Jazz
Music by: Michael Jackson
Choreographer's Notes:
Notas del Coreógrafo:
Shining Star
School: Thomas G. Pullen Arts Academy, CPA
Choreographer: Harmony Porter
Performers: Jessica Akintola, Caitlyn Atem, Selena Bostick, Jace Graham, Khayla Himbick, Sydni Honemond, Z’Aaliyah James, Morgan Johnson, Crystal Jones, Jalani Jones, Teylor Kimble, Anisa Nelson, Neriah Ngumatanga, Jahniyah Samuel, Samiya Stribling, Gerlia Williams, Terrance Williams Jr., Sapphire Woodbury
Dance Style: Jazz
Music by: Earth, Wind & Fire
Choreographer's Notes: This energetic jazz dance promotes self-motivation, strength and vision inspiring the audience to realize their potential, pursue their goals and embrace life with confidence."Shining star for you to see what your life can truly be", by Earth Wind, & Fire.
Notas del Coreógrafo: Esta enérgica danza de jazz promueve la automotivación, la fuerza y la visión, inspirando al público a realizar su potencial, perseguir sus objetivos y abrazar la vida con confianza. "Una estrella brillante para que veas lo que realmente puede ser tu vida", de y Earth Wind, & Fire.
Recollection
School: Bowie High School
Choreographer: Camille Weanquoi
Performers: Noella-Angel Agbor, Adnia Bangura, Carlos Botts, Hayla Butler, Gabrielle Caesar, Nikki Carlos, Anyla Carroll, Syncere Chase, Lareina Edmonson, Jordyn Fullard, Mackenzie Harris, Addison Jones, Leila Newman, Trinity Omotosho, Lynndsey Porter, Ariel Prempeh Dickson, Anya Proctor, Ryan Scott, Lizmary Smith, Gabrielle Tchemy, Simone Thornhill, Kayla White, Jailynn Young, Mariah Young
Dance Style: Modern
Music by: Yacoub
Choreographer's Notes: Do you know about Katherine Dunham, the Mother of Dance? She was an anthropologist, social activist, and pioneer of modern dance.This piece was created to showcase Katherine Dunham's technique and her influence on dance.
Notas del Coreógrafo: ¿Conoces a Katherine Dunham, la Madre de la Danza? Fue antropóloga, activista social y pionera de la danza moderna. Esta pieza fue creada para mostrar la técnica de Katherine Dunham y su influencia en la danza.
Bevy
School: Nicholas Orem Middle School
Choreographer: Martha Hernandez
Performers: Beverlin Aguirre, Camila Arriola, Jade Catalan, Suleydi Flores, Ishba Rivas, Vanessa Rosas
Dance Style: Contemporary
Music by: Naked and Famous
Choreographer's Notes: This dance represents the journey of being alone and eventually finding your people and support groups.
Notas del Coreógrafo: Este baile representa el viaje de estar solo y eventualmente encontrar a tu gente y grupos de apoyo.
Aguanile
School: Laurel High School
Choreographer: Keittra Casimir
Performers: Morgan Benjamin-Clarke, Na'shayla Cusseaux, Mariyah Edmiston, Seven Ford, Glory John, Taylin Oates, London Rawls, Dahlia Sucre, Emily Ventura Recinos, Aubri Ward, Tikii Winn
Dance Style: Salsa
Music by: Marc Anthony
Choreographer's Notes: Rooted in Puerto Rican tradition, the Vejigante figure draws from Spanish, African, and Taíno heritage, symbolizing resilience and the triumph of good over evil. Aguanile, a Yoruba word meaning "spiritual cleansing" or "sanctuary," deepens this theme of purification. As dancers move with powerful, rhythmic gestures, each step becomes a release, shedding negativity and inviting renewal.
Notas del Coreógrafo: Arraigada en la tradición puertorriqueña, la figura de Vejigante se inspira en la herencia española, africana y taína, y simboliza la resiliencia y el triunfo del bien sobre el mal. Aguanile, una palabra Yoruba que significa "limpieza espiritual" o "santuario", profundiza este tema de purificación. A medida que los bailarines se mueven con gestos rítmicos y poderosos, cada paso se convierte en una liberación, que elimina la negatividad e invita a la renovación.
Work That!!
School: Hyattsville Middle School, CPA
Choreographer: Nakia Espinal
Performers:
Dance Style: Jazz
Music by: Mutt Dhatt
Choreographer's Notes:
Notas del Coreógrafo:
Home
School: Eleanor Roosevelt High School
Choreographer: Angel Chinn
Performers: Camille Brandon, Lashawn Martin, Lena Nicholson, Michelle Phillipeaux, Deja Stancil, Candace Strawder
Dance Style: Contemporary
Music by: WILLOW & Jon Batiste
Choreographer's Notes: Home is an homage to our ancestors; those who paved the way for us, live within us, and guide us on our journey ahead.
Notas del Coreógrafo: El hogar es un homenaje a nuestros antepasados; aquellos que nos allanaron el camino, viven dentro de nosotros y nos guían en el camino que tenemos por delante.
An Unforgotten Sunday
School: Parkdale High School
Choreographer: Monet Mabry
Performers: Adeola Adesida, Allyson Anukwu, Namya Borrelli, Zoe Burton, Sahai Crowther, Laetitia Fassinou, Aolani Harvison, Elizabeth Kiilu, Elayna Keys, Ebubechukwu Onukwugha, Xena-Talia Stewart, Daniel Worley
Dance Style: Lyrical
Music by: Marvin Gaye
Choreographer's Notes: This piece is dedicated to the lives lost and impacted by the tragic church bombing that occurred on September 15, 1963. Through expressive movement and emotive storytelling, the dance captures the resilience, sorrow, and hope that emerged from this pivotal moment in history. It stands as a tribute to those affected and a reminder of the enduring spirit of a community committed to justice and unity.
Notas del Coreógrafo: Esta pieza está dedicada a las vidas perdidas y afectadas por el trágico bombardeo de una iglesia que ocurrió el 15 de septiembre de 1963. A través de movimientos expresivos y narraciones emotivas, la danza captura la resiliencia, el dolor y la esperanza que surgieron de este momento crucial de la historia. Es un tributo a los afectados y un recordatorio del espíritu perdurable de una comunidad comprometida con la justicia y la unidad.
Thank You
School: Thomas G. Pullen Arts Academy, CPA
Choreographer: Harmony Porter
Performers: Jazlyn Brown, Aniya Davis, Phoenix Hamlett, Dilan Jarrett, Erin Lasher, Madison Mallick, Gift Nwachukwu, Kali Robinson, Grace Summer Smith, Malia Tatem, Dominion Ubani
Dance Style: Jazz
Music by: Alicia Myers & DJ S Rework; edited by Harmony Porter
Choreographer's Notes: This piece beautifully honors the timeless elements of traditional jazz dance, infusing them with a fresh, modern twist that captivates the audience. With rhythmic flair and dynamic style, it creates an engaging platform for dancers to convey their gratitude to family, friends, and supporters through movement. The fusion of classic jazz techniques with contemporary nuances invites the audience to experience the joy and emotion behind every gesture, celebrating the powerful connections that inspire and uplift our journeys.
Notas del Coreógrafo: Esta pieza rinde homenaje maravillosamente a los elementos atemporales de la danza tradicional del jazz, infundiéndoles un toque fresco y moderno que cautiva al público. Con estilo rítmico y dinámico, crea una plataforma atractiva para que los bailarines transmitan su gratitud a familiares, amigos y seguidores a través del movimiento. La fusión de técnicas clásicas del jazz con matices contemporáneos invita al público a experimentar la alegría y la emoción detrás de cada gesto, celebrando las poderosas conexiones que inspiran y elevan nuestros viajes.
Live.Love.Dance!
School: Northwestern High School, VPA
Choreographer: Bayardo Martinez (in collaboration with student Luisen Asanji)
Performers: Luisen Asanji, Jazmyne Cesar, Sharae Freeman, Kimora Goodwine, Roberta Hottab, Niyell Jones, Louisetta Koh, Brianna Moscoso, Jeanna Parrish, Hellen Paredes-Jeronimo, Makyra Turner
Dance Style: Afro-Fusion-Modern
Music by: Mafikizolo; edited by Bayardo Martinez
Choreographer's Notes: Dancing can be a way to embrace the fullness of life, and to appreciate the lighter moments. It can also be a way to dance with the awareness of the beauty of life, and to be open to receiving strength in a new rhythm.
Notas del Coreógrafo: Bailar puede ser una forma de abrazar la plenitud de la vida y apreciar los momentos más alegres. También puede ser una forma de bailar con la conciencia de la belleza de la vida y de estar abiertos a recibir fuerza en un nuevo ritmo.
Acknowledgments
NKenge Barker - Principal - Northwestern High School
Cordelia Polley - Visual & Performing Arts Administrator - Northwestern High School
Sandra Atkinson, MA - Visual & Performing Arts Coordinator - Northwestern High School
Malik Savage - Justice Auditorium Technician - Northwestern High School
Bayardo Martinez, MFA - Dance Department Director - Northwestern High School
Julia Smith, MFA - Ballet Mistress - Northwestern High School
Jenna Nelson, BFA - Dance Faculty - Northwestern High School
Kevin Goodwine - Dance Adjunct - Northwestern High School
Marcia Warner-Witters - Dance Educator - Bladensburg High School
Tamara Henry - Dance Educator - Bowie High School
Felicia Stevens - Dance Educator - DuVal High School
Angel Chinn - Dance Educator - Eleanor Roosevelt High School
Nakia Espinal - Dance Educator - Hyattsville Middle School (CPA)
Keittra Casimir - Dance Educator - Laurel High School
Martha Hernandez - Dance Educator - Nicholas Orem Middle School
Monet Mabry - Dance Educator - Parkdale High School
Harmony Porter - Dance Educator - Thomas G. Pullen Arts Academy (CPA)
Kristen Jackson-Jones - Dance Educator - Thomas G. Pullen Arts Academy (CPA)
Temisha Richardson - PGCPS Dance Supervisor
Jaclyn Martin - PGCPS Dance Resource Teacher
Bayardo Martinez - Director
Jenna Nelson - Stage Manager
Sandra Atkinson - Lighting Operator
Julia Smith - Box Office Manager
Kevin Goodwine - Concessions Manager
*Keala Jacobs - Sound Operator
*Benedi Perdomo - Videographer
Backstage Crew & Student Support:
*Traniya Brown, *Chastelyn Cosigua, *Lidia da Cruz, *Ariella Fabio, *Wencelly Garcia, *Kassidy Moton, *Brooklyn Ramsay, *Aiya Robinson, *Anadilia Romero, *Peyton Spence
*Northwestern HS VPA Dance Major