To close out Gaynor’s celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, students were treated to a performance from our neighbors at Ballet Hispánico! The dancers took students on a journey through many different countries, including Spain, Mexico, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Brazil, and showcased the various styles of dance, music, and costumes from each country.
Ballet Hispánico’s Associate School Director Rodney Hamilton acted as Gaynor’s tour guide, explaining the significance behind each piece, and what elements of dance the students could spot in the choreography. He also explained the history behind Ballet Hispánico, and their founder Tina Ramirez’s vision to share the joy of Hispanic and Latinx culture through dance. Gaynor students certainly felt joy as they shimmied in their seats to the music of the performances. Mr. Hamilton even encouraged the audience to get out of their seats and show off their sense of rhythm by teaching everyone a few merengue moves. The Performing Arts Center was full of smiles and laughs as students boogied to the music with what they’d learned.
Before long, it was time to finish the tour and head back to New York City. Gaynor is so grateful to Ballet Hispánico and their dancers for coming and showing our students the joy in dancing, and exploring other cultures.
