Marist Fine Arts Students Flourish in Spring Showcases

Marist Dance graced the stage of Woodruff Auditorium with their latest production, “Legendary Divas”, in a two-night showcase held on April 11 and 12. Under the expert guidance of Mrs. Jillian Bauersfeld, dance company director, and Ms. Prisca Lynch '13, assistant dance company director, alongside Mrs. Anna Lee, technical director, and Mr. Eric McNaughton '90, fine arts department chair, the showcase unfolded with precision. Demonstrating the broad expertise of Marist's fine arts community, technical crew members Carson Algeo ’27, Kaitlin Algeo ’25, Kate Little ’26, and Lena McMorrow ’27 also played integral roles.

Throughout the evening, the spotlight turned to seniors Melanie Harper, Andrea Montenegro, and Abby Owen. Their solos left an impression on audiences, reflecting the culmination of years of dedication and skill. Harper took a starring position in the “Smile” routine featuring music by Lily Allen, which Harper choreographed with help from Brooke Thomas ’25 for the Marist Dance Company. Owen performed and choreographed her senior solo to “Tidal” by Noah Kahan. Montenegro performed and choreographed her senior solo to “Flying on Faith” by Chung Ha. Senior Brennan Ujda, fresh off his lively performance as William Shakespeare in Marist’s high school musical production of “Something Rotten!”, served as the master of ceremonies.

Central to the dance showcase was the student-led choreography by those enrolled in the Term 2 Dance Expression and Movement Class and by dancers in the Marist Dance Company. From intricately choreographed group pieces to poignant solo performances, each routine showcased the diverse range of skills and the extraordinary commitment of the student-dancers in the program.

A highlight of the show was an interpretive dance choreographed by Ms. Hannah Waldman, Marist School’s nurse, set to a recitation of Maya Angelou’s “Phenomenal Women” poem. The dancers, including company members Owen, Harper, Caroline Spies ’25, Estella Hood ’25, Evie Ferencik ’27, Meredith Stanley ’27, Penelope Vickers ’25, Bennett McKee ’27, and Georgia Hankel ’25, delivered a moving performance that underscored the company’s creativity and talent. Another crowd favorite was “Chikni-Chameli” with songs and lyrics from Agneepath and choreography in Indian classical dance tradition by Becca Jose ’25. The grand finale, choreographed by Lynch to “Exes” by Tate McRae, expertly showcased all dancers in the Marist Dance Company and Term 2 Dance Class students.

Mrs. Bauersfeld reflected on the event, saying, “Each season we work to push the language of dance within our community, and we are honored and proud to light up the stage with strong, powerful dances that will leave you belting out these songs for days to come.”

The excitement in Woodruff Auditorium continued on Saturday, April 20, as Marist students gathered for a special workshop featuring Cassie Silva, one of the queens from the national tour of the hit Broadway musical “SIX”.  Silva, who portrays Anne Boleyn in the production, led a 90-minute workshop focused on choreography from the show. Following the dance session, students engaged in a Q&A session, delving into the world of Broadway and touring. It was a valuable opportunity for those passionate about dance and theater or those who were simply eager to glean insights from a seasoned professional.

“During our workshop, Cassie Silva taught us how to expand our emotions in order to be larger than life on stage and have fun at the same time,” reflected sophomore Flannery Hipp. She appreciated Silva's time spent teaching a piece of choreography from the show and for offering personal insights that provided a unique glimpse into the life of a professional theater actor.

Evan Stallings ’29 described the workshop as “an immersive and enjoyable experience where Silva taught us valuable lessons on expression, emotion, and gratitude.”

His classmate Grace Crunk ’29 added, “Working with Cassie Silva was a dream. I learned to always have a kind heart, to be expressive, and always to reach beyond my box.”

“I loved how she taught us how to be weird and funny,” Lena McMorrow ’27 said. “And own it.”

To conclude a lively month for Marist fine arts students, the 10th annual Sing-Off took over the Arcade on Wednesday, April 24. Throughout each lunch period, three a cappella singing groups vied for votes from peers, faculty, and staff to clinch the 2024 title.

Among the contenders, the self-styled “Dolly Partunes” donned cowboy hats for their rendition of “Nine to Five” by Dolly Parton. Meanwhile, “Don’t Stop Me, Chorale” brought down the house with “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen. Ultimately, the crown went to the “Ring Tones”, whose performance of “Telephone” by Lady Gaga stole the show.

With student-selected songs and choreography, the Sing-Off remains a highly anticipated spring event for the entire Marist School community.

Through participation in workshops led by industry professionals such as Cassie Silva, students not only hone their artistic skills but also gain valuable insights into their respective fields. Additionally, dance and choral events like “Legendary Divas” and the Sing-Off serve as platforms for students to showcase their talents, fostering a sense of camaraderie and unity among peers, faculty, and staff. This collective support and encouragement empower students to explore their artistic passions, strive for excellence, and create memorable experiences that enhance both their individual journeys and the broader Marist community.

View photos from “Legendary Divas”.

View photos from Cassia Silva’s "SIX" Workshop.

View photos from the Sing-Off.

Purchase tickets to the Foundations Musical “Tuck Everlasting: Theater for Young Audiences Edition”, Woodruff Auditorium – May 9-11.

Advanced Placement (AP) Studio Art Show, Location to be determined – May 13-17, 2024

Spring Band Concert, Woodruff Auditorium – May 14, 2024

High School Spring Choral Concert, Woodruff Auditorium – May 16, 2024

Fine Arts End of Term Student Art Show, Bishop Gunn Art Gallery – May 17-30, 2024, Opening Event – May 17

Foundations Spring Choral Concert, Woodruff Auditorium – May 21, 2024