Evolution Summer Edition | Page 15

PAGE 15 SUMMER 2015 Arts Dynamic Dancing Duo Dani Cervantes Staff Writer International Dance siblings senior Tony Maldonado and sophmore Marissa knew the Spring Showcase would be their last show together. They tried to make the best of it during rehearsals and on the stage. “Just thinking we’re not dancing next year is kind of sad. It’s comforting to have him dancing with me. We have this connection where we both feel it,” said Marissa. Tony said that he hopes to dance with her again, giving her some words of advice: “Push [yourself] all the time, that way you can work through it and become a stronger person, mentally and physically.” Both agreed that over the years at OCSA, they grew and matured as dancers under the direction of Mrs. Marlene Peña Marín, artistic director of International Dance, which incorporates both Ballet Folklorico and Ballroom. Peña Marín had the idea for this year’s final show at the beginning of the school year. The April 18 and 19 Showcase integrated all of the conservatory’s students and both dancing styles. Ballet Folklorico took audiences from Spain to the coasts of Guerrero to Veracruz, with a dazzling finale in Jalisco. In one of their intricate and impressive choreographies, dancers balanced a glass cup filled with water, in which a candle floated, on their heads. Ballroom showed audiences a glimpse of its “Tron” and “Farwell 2014” pieces as a preview of their debut show May 21. Rehearsals were grueling. The dancers dealt with long hours, blisters, and wet leotards from their cups spilling, but in the end were all able to pull through and make it another successful show. Peña Marín said, “watching that final show, along with family and friends, and parents--it’s just amazing how they all make it unfold and make it come to life.” Cheyenne Asato & Kate Fahey Co-Editors In Chief Evolution readers, Thank you for your contribution and participation through the 2014-2015 school year. This year alone, Evolution underwent many changes, including the implementation of AP Style and a cohesive format between issues. There was also a change in staff as Josh Wood, the codirector of Creative Writing, mentored the writers and editors as the staff adivsor. For the first time, Evolution staff was )