Students 'Steppin Out'

5/7/2004

Some 80 dance students from the Performing Arts School of Metropolitan Toledo present a year-end dance showcase recital tonight at Owens Community College's Center for Fine and Performing Arts.

"Every genre you can imagine is covered, from ballet to musical theater to hip-hop. It's a chance for students to show off what they have learned during the school year," said Jill Arterburn, the school's dance department director.

"We chose the theme 'Steppin' Out' for the show because the pieces are all about showing the confidence that these students have. Most have helped collaborate, some have created their own choreography. These kids are really polished," she said.

The program includes 22 pieces, many choreographed by the students themselves. The school's students are junior high and high school age.

The evening has many highlights. "Rhythm Tap" is a tap-dance piece created by the students that is performed without musical accompaniment. Madonna's "Vogue" will be performed by dancers in hot-pink wigs and costumes. A student choreographed partner dance focuses on women's empowerment. The eighth graders present a Hungarian folk dance.

"These are incredibly talented kids. They really know what they are doing," said Arterburn.

Performing Arts School of Metropolitan Toledo presents a dance concert at 7 tonight at Owens Community College's Center for Fine and Performing Arts, 30335 Oregon Rd., Perrysburg Township. Advance tickets, available by calling the school, are $10 for adults and $5 for students; tickets at the door are $12 and $8. Information: 419-534-2228.