Middle school students from more than 20 HISD schools gathered at Welch Middle School on Saturday, Oct. 28, for a day devoted entirely their collective passion: dance.

Student dancers were invited to participate in hour-long master workshop classes in hip hop, jazz, contemporary dance, and more, as well as learn how to audition for high school dance companies. The master workshops were led by professional dance choreographers from the Institute of Contemporary Dance. After a day of rigorous learning and practice, 19 dance ensembles had the opportunity to show off their hard work in a performance showcase.

“It’s an amazing event, and I’m so glad we were able to do it again this year,” said Toi Jones, Welch MS Dance Director, who facilitated the festival this year. “The dancers get the opportunity to learn proper dance and performance etiquette, and it’s an amazing event that’s good for the dancers, the audience, and the community.”

The showcase included dances of all genres and featured innovative choreography accompanied by current pop music as well as experimental and classical pieces.

The following ensembles gave it their all and exhibited their dedication and passion for dance through spirited performances:

Expressions Dance Team
Young Women’s College Prep Academy

West Briar Dance Company
West Briar MS

Dynasty Elite
Gregory Lincoln Education Center PVA

Marshall Middle Academy of Fine Arts
Marshall MS

L.A. Stars
Las Americas MS/Jane Long Academy

Pin Oak Dance Company
Pin Oak Middle School

Key Middle School Dance Ensemble
Francis Scott Key MS

Pershing Dance Company
John J. Pershing MS

Harman MS Dance Company
Hartman MS

FBMS En l’aire Dance Company
Frank Black MS

Meyerland Dance Ensemble
Meyerland PVA MS

Edison Rangerettes
Edison MS

TranscenDANCE
Marshall MS Academy of Fine Arts

Deady Hornettes Dance Team
Deady MS

The Crew
Pin Oak MS

CAMS Dance Elite
Crispus Attucks MS

Audrey H. Lawson MS

For more information on HISD’s Fine Arts Dance Department, visit their website.