The HCC Fall Dance Showcase was a captivating fusion of community, artistry, emotions, and technical mastery. The showcase’s diversity in music and ability to share deep emotions through the universal language of performance art made it exceptionally enchanting. The event presented an outstanding blend of genres that appealed to the audience’s mind and senses, and witnessing the undeniable excitement and pressure during dress rehearsal and opening night only made me appreciate this program even more.

I Don’t Belong Here: Imposter Phenomenon was a fascinating interpretation of “Creep” by Vintage Postmodern Jukebox. This rendition is known for its vintage twist on the iconic Radiohead song, and offered a new perspective when paired with tap dancing. As the melancholic and haunting notes filled the space, Prof. Miguel Ledesma’s movements reflected the lyrics’ raw emotion – expressing a sense of alienation and self–loathing through delicate yet anguished movements. This piece embodied the feeling of being an outsider, the central theme of the song, through slow and sweeping gestures that intensified as the song progressed.

“Recollect” by Alex J. Krebs displayed intricacies in choreography, though minimalist in approach, was profound in its message as it tackles the up and downs of relationships and connections with other people.

Towards the end of the program, “Mother” — choreographed by Rochelle Lambert — elevated the evening with its high-energy upbeat performance. This evening was intricately arranged by Prof. Darion Smith and the staff on stage and behind the scenes. Opening night ended with refreshments catered by the school’s Culinary Arts program, as the participants took questions from the audience.