Bright lights, big city

A group of senior dance students from Taupo-Nui-a-Tia College got the trip of a lifetime recently with a trip to Los Angeles and New York City.

The 15 students, some of whom had never been on an aeroplane before, experienced the highs and lows of the US and even featured on a Times Square billboard at one stage.

Year 11 dean Nikki Quinn said students gained a first-hand insight into the global dance industry and experience in elite training environments.

They also got to experience the culture and iconic landmarks of the two major US cities.

“The mix of high-level training, iconic sightseeing, and cultural immersion made this a truly unforgettable experience.”

She says LA was a real “culture shock” for many, with students struck by the stark contrast between extreme wealth seen in the likes of Rodeo Drive, and visible homelessness throughout the city.

Students took daily classes at the Millennium Dance Complex – a famous commercial studio, private classes tailored to the group and open classes, with dancers from around the world.

“The standard was extremely high. (It) exposed students to professional-level choreography and expectations.”