Dance Etc Students Offered ‘Unspeakable Joy’

By Shannon Hicks

The students of Dance, Etc offered two performances of “Unspeakable Joy” last weekend, showing off what they’ve been learning in their dance classes since last September. The Newtown-based studio offered classes in dance, gymnastics, musical theater, acting, and voice all year, but last weekend’s recitals at New Milford High School kept the spotlight on the newest dance talents of students ranging from age 3 to advanced level teenagers. Parents and friends were given the option of attending performances at 1 and 5 pm on Sunday, June 8.

The recital offered performances in ballet, jazz, lyrical (the combination of ballet and jazz steps), hip hop, and tap.

The studio’s 2002–03 dance team opened the shows, performing a number called “We’re In The Money.” The 33-member team represents a cross-section of the school’s age range and has had a very successful season, winning armloads of awards at each of the three major competitions –– Stars of Tomorrow, Star Power, and Starquest Dance Competition –– it entered this season.

The early show then included 39 numbers that offered a full presentation of why Dance Etc’s dance program is so successful. The second show was pared down just a bit, with 33 dance numbers presented.

In addition to the recital a number of dancers celebrated milestone anniversaries this year. Samantha Davies earned her 15-Year Award, and Katie Aeillo, Diana Curcuruto, Alexa Feldman, Allison Rambone, Jennie Samson, Shannon Seaman, Traci Tamarkin, and Dora Wood all earned 10-Year Awards.

Professional dancer and choreographer Jen Turey of New York has been the owner of Dance, Etc for the past three years. She commutes into Newtown at least five days a week to work at the studio, and she is also an adjunct faculty member at Western Connecticut State University. On top of that she is currently preparing to perform in Cape Playhouse’s production of Anything Goes up in Dennis, Mass., this summer.

A veteran of national and international tours, her credits include 42nd Street, The Will Rogers Follies, and four productions of Crazy for You. She performed and served as dance captain with that last show, touring to Europe, Canada, Massachusetts and Westchester County, N.Y. She has also been a member of the internationally known Radio City Music Hall Rockettes.

Ms Turey purchased the studio three years ago from Linda Davies, who co-owned the studio for 17 years. Mrs Davies continues to be a member of the studio’s staff. Ms Turey’s staff also includes Eric Campros, Emily Cieniawa, Laura Hones, Candice Luongo, Sarah Martin, Alana Niehoff, Stephen Purdy, and Erin Veronesi. Assistant teachers are Kim Arnold, Erin Beckman, Christie Halloran, Katie Sciarretto, and Erica Villodas.