Winter Dance Festival 2026!
The LIHSA Dance Department was delighted to welcome audiences to our Winter Dance Festival on January 16, 2026. The performance highlighted the depth, versatility, and artistry of our students through a dynamic collection of works created by faculty, resident artists, and students. We applaud our dancers and are deeply grateful for the trust and support of our families and community.
Twenty-nine LIHSA students performed throughout the evening’s two-act program. The fourteen pieces featured original choreography was created by L’aura Bagdziunas and Natalie L’Etoile, with two works set by artist-in-residence Mariah Anton-Arters. A variety of genres were represented, including Modern (Horton and Limon), Contemporary, Jazz, and Dance Repertory Company.
Faculty member L’aura Bagdziunas shared, “During the fall semester, the Dance Repertory Company was honored to work with Mariah Anton-Arters, whose residency introduced students to Cunningham technique and compositional methods rooted in Merce Cunningham’s groundbreaking use of chance procedures. Through this process, students explored neutrality, clarity, spatial awareness, and unpredictability while performing works set in the Cunningham style. The residency challenged dancers to think critically, adapt quickly, and approach movement with both precision and curiosity.”
L’aura continued, “Throughout the semester, students also participated in numerous master classes, engaged with visiting artists, and took part in college visits, gaining valuable insight into collegiate dance programs and professional pathways. Despite a full and demanding schedule, our dancers consistently showed up with focus, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to their craft. Their passion, work ethic, and dedication were evident throughout the performance, which reflected the culmination of months of hard work and artistic growth.”
A cornerstone of the LIHSA Dance Department is our ongoing partnership with the American Ballet Theatre. Through this distinguished collaboration, students received year-long ballet instruction from ABT Resident Artists Wendy Palmer Clark and Stephen Campanella. This rigorous training strengthened technical foundation, discipline, and artistry, while fostering a deep respect for classical ballet. We are excited that this residency will culminate in performance work featured in our Spring Dance Festival.
LIHSA’s dance department is grateful to the LIHSA commiunity for being part of this journey and for celebrating the artistry, growth, and perseverance of our students.
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