“Its mainly the moments before and after that matter to me the most that I remember the most”. The Panorama High School dance team recently took center stage at the state competition, showcasing their talent, dedication, and passion for dance. As the team geared up for the competition, their journey involved intense practices, team bonding, and individual performances that left a lasting impact on both the dancers and the audience.

Hadley Fitch, with a dance journey that commenced at the tender age of three at Main street dance studios, shared, “I started doing competition when I was in fourth grade cause I got really into it because my sister was very into it I did the Middle School dance and then eventually when I got up to high school I’d joined the High School dance team”

The team’s practice routine was nothing short of rigorous. Team practices on Sundays lasted three hours, while mornings on Tuesdays were dedicated to group rehearsals and Thursdays focused on individual solos. Three hours on Sundays I like the biggest one I mean everyone being there and being able to dance in the corrections and critique some of our coaches that’s the biggest way that we prepare.”

Team bonding emerged as a crucial aspect of their preparation. “A lot of us wasn’t required but a lot of us went to the coffee shop after practice and we talked and got closer that way.”

Donovan Delp, a senior at Panorama High School, shared insights into the competitive process. “I had to pre-qualify at pre-qualifying in October which they only take the top 10 and you have to get a division one which is an average of 80 from all your judges.”

Donovan further detailed the nerve-wracking experience of solo performances, especially waiting as the ninth-to-last performer. “had to be confident of myself it’s over and as long as I give it my best.” 

Sarah Westergard, another senior who is an integral part of the team, discussed the complexities of choreography.“ memorizing choreography isn’t difficult it doing it over and over again you don’t think about it your body does it.”

Sarah also touched on the surreal experience of performing at Wells Fargo, a significant venue for the state competition. “ The crowd at the end I felt like I was a superstar like I felt like I was Taylor Swift to just performed her 3-hour concert.” 

As the Panorama High School dance team left the stage, they carried with them a sense of accomplishment and the memories of moments before and after their captivating performances. Their journey, marked by dedication, teamwork, and the thrill of performing on a prestigious stage, resonates as a testament to the artistry and passion within each dancer. “It was fun and supportive, I had a good time.” 

Donovin Delp won solo state champion 2nd year in a row for class 3, the team as a whole won state in Class 1 Lyrical, Judges Choice Award, team state champions for Class I Contemporary, Class II Jazz – 3rd Place, Community Service Award, ISDTA Cares Award – Food Shelter Donation, and multiple Academic Excellence Awards.

(Photo Thanks to Main Studios FB Page)

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