Dance Morning Ex Moves Parker

Last Friday, the Parker community gathered in the Big Gym for a special Morning Ex as Upper School Dance students presented the annual Dance Morning Ex. New performing arts faculty member Florence “Flo” Walker-Harris kicked off the performance with the quote, “Dance is the way I express what I can’t say.” Acting as the emcee of the event, she showcased the progression of the students in class thus far. As each class participated, she explained in detail the techniques the students were highlighting.

The students began with traditional ballet. Classes One and Two showcased the “tendu demi” and “degage” techniques. Class Three performed the “plié” technique and Class Four the “tendu plié flex” technique. Next, the classes each performed a select piece of choreography for the audience.

After ballet, the Morning Ex progressed to modern, with students demonstrating the “Horton Technique” developed by Lester Horton between the 1920s and ’40s, based on Native American dances, anatomical studies and other movement influences. During this section students were accompanied by Mr. Mark Vaughn on the drum.

Finally, the students covered the hip-hop influence. Breaking into two groups, Classes One and Two and Classes Three and Four each performed a choreographed dance to the song, “Made for Now.”

All in the audience were moved by the hard work and dedication of these students this year. Their intense, energetic and musical performances sent the audience into the weekend with high spirits.

Click here for photos from this Morning Ex.
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Francis W. Parker School educates students to think and act with empathy, courage and clarity as responsible citizens and leaders in a diverse democratic society and global community.