By Betsy B & Arabella B

At the beginning of March, NHEHS dance groups performed in the Dance Gallery production Dancing Through DG. The show featured performers from Years 7 through to 10, each bringing their own energy and style to the performance. Years 7, 8 and 9 delivered a dynamic routine to Beggin’ by Måneskin, choreographed by Alana from Dance Gallery, while in contrast, Year 10 performed a lively and characterful mash-up of If They Could See Me Now by Linda Clifford and She’s All I Wanna Be by Tate McRae, choreographed by Maddy.

Preparation for the show began months in advance, with each year group attending weekly dance clubs and rehearsing their routines since September. As the performance dates approached, rehearsals became more focused and they were spent refining technique and timing to ensure a polished final piece. Rehearsals intensified in the lead-up to the show and on Sunday 22nd February, as all groups gathered at the Methodist church on Pitshanger Lane to practise in a larger space, allowing them to adjust to a performance setting.

A week later, on 1st March, they stepped onto the Questors Theatre stage for the first time, rehearsing in full and capturing photos in costume. The excitement built further during the full dress rehearsal, where professional photographers took photos of them in action. When not performing, they enjoyed watching the second half of the show, filled with impressive and fun routines that left everyone amazed. They also got to experience backstage of the theatre, as they prepared nervously and excitedly before stepping into the spotlight. Once on stage, the lighting transformed each routine, adding atmosphere and bringing the choreography to life.

Every performance ran smoothly, including impressive lifts that were executed with confidence. Costumes added to the visual impact of the show. Years 7, 8 and 9 wore sparkly black trousers paired with black and silver polka dot tops, while Year 10 wore holographic flared leggings and grey waistcoats. Their look was completed with bowler hats, which were a key prop throughout their routine. During the show itself, performers also had the chance to sit in the audience and enjoy the first half. Many particularly loved the dances to K-pop Demon Hunter songs which were performed by the younger students at Dance Gallery. Overall, Dancing Through DG was a memorable experience for everyone involved, showcasing all the hard work and dedication. It also showed the extreme talent that all of the dance groups were capable of and their passion and enthusiasm for performing.