MASTERING THE ARTS
Portland Ovations Partnership Brings Masterclass to Campus
In addition to the exceptional instruction provided by our teachers , students in the Thornton Academy dance program had the honor of sharing the stage for a masterclass led by Soumah " Yamo " Yamoussa of Cirque Kalabanté in October .
The class is the result of a partnership with Portland Ovations , a nonprofit cultural organization dedicated to gathering communities to share in the power of live performance .
Yamo led a class that shared the beauty , youth and artistry of African culture . Accompanying Yamo was Alya Sylla , who played traditional Djembe ( pronounced JEM-bay ) drums , which has roots in West Africa where it was first created by the Mandinka people .
“ Here in Dance Company we learn so many different styles of dance but never anything like this class ,” says Sophia Guindon , a junior at Thornton . “ This masterclass was so unique and so refreshing for me and a lot of my dance peers as well . There was so much happy energy in the air .”
The partnership with Portland Ovations began in April with a masterclass led by dancer Michael Jordan Jr . of the Alvin Ailey American Repertory .
“ It is so incredible to be able to learn from someone who is in the peak of their career ,” says Sam Lawler , a junior at TA . “ It is truly inspiring to be able to dance with these people who put so much effort into sharing their art !”
TA : Excellence in the Arts , Onstage and Beyond
Senior Natalie Clark ( right ), a standout artist , holds a ceramic hand sculpture made in Dana Altman ’ s class . Last year , she won a gold key in the prestigious Scholastic Art & Writing Awards and plans to enter again this year . " Natalie is a talented artist known for her exceptional skill and heartfelt dedication to her craft ," says Arts instructor Jodi Thomas . " Whether working with paint , clay , or mixed media , she creates pieces that captivate and inspire ."
After graduation , Natalie will attend art school , and hopes to continue her creative work while also teaching .
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