Thornton Academy Postscripts Alumni Magazine Spring 2013 | Page 11

Arts

As part of the 21st Century Classroom
Enhancement project described by
Headmaster Menard on p. 2, the dance
program is moving into a newlyrenovated space on the first floor of
Emery that will provide dancers with
changing rooms and a dedicated
studio space with full light and sound
design capabilities. It’s expected to be
one of the finest high school facilities
in the state.

Dance Program Director Emma Arenstam said, “Only one other high school has attempted to present CATS which
is a very ambitious play that is a 42 person production made up of dancers, singers, and actors. One of the
major challenges of CATS is that it is considered an operetta, that is, a production made up solely of dancing and
singing. This makes the production very difficult for high school groups. Following Les Miserables, Phantom of
the Opera, and CATS, Thornton Academy will have produced the three longest running Broadway musicals.”

After moving to California in 2002, Ricci toured with
Sesame Street Live, performed as an extra on TV
shows, and taught dance. In September 2012, she
opened her own dance studio in Woodland Hills, the
Elite Dance and Performing Arts Center (see right).
“Building a career in dance is a hard-won
accomplishment. I think a hard fight is part of a process
of finding happiness in life. Jump each hurdle. Stand by
your passion,” Ricci advises.

-KDL

Read about the ambitious dance production opening
at TA - CATS - and about some major changes to the
dance program (above).

Postscripts

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