We closed out the school year on a high note—literally—with a vibrant and passion-filled Spring Dance Concert that showcased the extraordinary talent, creativity, and heart of our student performers. With 12 captivating pieces choreographed by Dance Director Ms. Kristie Schillaci, choreographer Mr. Wynton Rice, and several Aquinas students themselves, the concert was more than just a performance—it was a celebration of growth, self-expression, and the transformative power of the arts. For Ms. Schillaci, the most rewarding part of the concert wasn’t just the applause—it was watching her students’ hard work, passion, and artistic voices take center stage. “It is always such a rewarding experience to see these young artists bring so much energy and passion to the stage,” she said. “Watching them not only execute the choreography, but fully embody the emotion of each piece is very fulfilling. It’s moments like these that remind me of why I do what I do.” One of the highlights of the evening was a dynamic tribute to the legendary Michael Jackson, choreographed by junior Akeem Jeffries ’26. The high-energy number featured iconic hits like Beat It, Billie Jean, and Thriller, and electrified the audience with its precision and charisma. For Akeem, the performance was deeply personal. “I’ve been a huge Michael Jackson fan since I was about four years old,” he shared. “So that performance felt like a full circle moment. Finally bringing it to life onstage meant a lot to me.” His dedication was evident in every detail. “Me and the juniors put in a lot of time into the piece so it could be special and enjoyable for everyone,” he said. “I’m planning on taking dance next year!” Ms. Schillaci reflected on what it means to see students like Akeem step into leadership roles as choreographers. “Watching students create their own choreography fills me with a great sense of pride,” she said. “The creative process reveals their growth—not just as dancers, but as individuals who are confident enough to take on a leadership role among their peers. Seeing them take ownership of their art is a reminder of the power of creativity and how it can shape confidence, self-expression, and teamwork.” The Aquinas Dance Program continues to be a shining example of how the arts enrich the student experience, both inside and outside of the classroom. Through dance, our students learn discipline, develop leadership, and discover their unique voices. It’s not just about movement—it’s about meaning, and finding your rhythm in the world. With students already looking ahead to next year’s performances, one thing is certain: the stage at Aquinas will always be a place where our young artists can shine. the arts come alive 10 AQUINAS LANDMARK | SUMMER 2025 The Power of AQ Dance Shining a light on AQ’s Spring Dance Concert
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