Dance OFF! VI will feature dozens of students performing several styles of dance, including traditional Japanese, screen (dance film), improvisation, jazz, hip-hop, ballet, tap, contemporary Indian folk and postmodern.

An appearance by special hip-hop guests will help make the evening even more memorable.

The co-directors of AVPA’s Dance Department, Cari Ann Shim Sham and Julie Carson, have been pleased with their students’ progress this year, both in terms of exposure and technique.

New Viewpoints

"The students’ perspectives of dance have changed dramatically since the fall,” Ms. Carson said. “I’m excited to see their performances showcased in this concert. I have no doubt it will be very exciting."

The choreographers for the dance concert these three evenings include Lisa Kobashi, Ms. Carson and Shim Sham as well as several students.

Says Shim Sham: "The students visited UCLA to see the World Arts and Cultures Department MFA 2 concert, and it really got them excited about their own concert.

Broadening Perspectives

“This kind of exposure helps them see what is going on in the world of dance. It opens their eyes to new ideas, and it inspires them to make their own work."

The Academy of Visual and Performing Arts has been inspiring students to build a compassionate, creative community through innovative and challenging arts education since 1996.

For more information about the Academy, go to avpa.org or contact Tony Spano at 310.842.4200, ext. 6094 or Kristine Hatanaka at 310.842.4200, ext. 6001.