by Shelley Bennett
Dancing for a Brand New Me, season 11 was an absolute blast! Winners Luke Petersen and his sister-in-law Christy Parker-Petersen pushed their limits with a powerful contemporary piece that depicted a grieving woman who, with the encouragement of her guardian angel, was able to find light amidst the darkness.
I think of Luke as being a strong partner in swing and country dances, and have been so impressed to see him experiment in other genres, like character, contemporary, and lyrical. He is a true artist.
Luke and Christy were also the recipients of the People’s Choice Award on night two of the competition.
My favorite couple was Nicomi Reed and Casey Lee. From looking like a real-life Princess and Prince in their portrayal of Cinderella and Prince Charming to a spot-on hip-hop salute to Snoop Dog to their heart-wrenching tribute to Vietnam Vets, they delivered every dance with conviction and passion.
Casey – you left it all on the dance floor! I was so impressed and proud of you. Since I met you at the beginning of your senior year, you have continued to set your goals and crush them, always going above and beyond what is expected. What will you do next? (I’m hoping high school history teacher and coach!)
Celeste Wiser and Leon Myers were equally fun to watch! Leon approached every dance with joy and a bounce in his step. My favorite performance was their dance to honor musical legend Missy Elliot. Celeste’s choreo was intricate and hit hard and Leon made it look effortless.
Celeste and Leon were awarded the People’s Choice Award on night one.
Last couple, Morgan Whitlow and Johan Kampfraat were perfect as Belle and Prince. Their partner dancing was superb as they went through their ballroom patterns with poise and elegance.
Morgan’s frothy, yellow cupcake-style dress was to die for and Johan matched her formality with a sharp navy blue suit.
Groups from J&J Performing Arts helped to keep the continuity of the somber event with beautiful dances by their senior competitive group, a trio consisting of Kaylee Micone, Kissy Baesman, and Parker Foreman, and soloist Allie Chandler.
The Advanced Jazz group from Joan’s Studio of Dance provided a fun, rollicking number to “Jailhouse Rock”. Their performance was highlighted by innovative formations and transitions, engaging facials, and standout Luke Trevizu, whose energy and personality shine onstage.
As solely an observer this year, I have no idea what work went on behind the scenes, but I know that it did! So, thank you to all the people who give their hearts to this cause every year, including emcees Jeremy Couso and Terra Avilla, organizers Kassie Satica, Jennie Hoffman, and Angie Reed, all of the Lassen Family Services employees, and volunteers, the lights and sound crews, ticket takers, Queen of the Curtain Andrea Singleton, and the army of people backstage.
Remember when news was ‘newsy’? When you read about weddings, family events and engagement announcements in the newspaper? If you have something that might be newsworthy, please submit it to [email protected] and I’ll do my best to include it here in “The Good Stuff.”
