Testimonials
2- Emerging Companies/Audience
3 - High School Students
Lauren Nelson, Sequoia High School, Redwood City
“Wow, what an experience! Thank you for all the time and faith you have invested in my peers and me. You have contributed to our development as individuals and our position in life. I don’t know how you do it, how you bring so much life to your movement and still have enough energy to devote to us and this cause.”
Elizabeth Ho, Crystal Springs Upland School, Hillsborough
“Never before had I ever had such a positive and professional dance experience. I had such an amazing time because of the supportive atmosphere behind the curtain, as well as the excitement and passion exuded by the other choreographers and dancers. I believe the Vision Series not to be just a workshop or show, but a priceless learning experience.”
Hanna Schweitz, ArtQuest Dance Company, Santa Rosa
“This was my first time to participating in this event and I was blown away. It was very gratifying to get such positive feedback from dancers with so much experience and love for the art. I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to participate, it was truly an experience that I will never forget…”
Carolyn M. Jascula, former Mercy High School SF dancer, now a Vision Series Staff member
“… The Vision Series was not about who could leap higher or who could sustain a position longer, it was about sharing the fact that we are all performers who used our bodies to convey a feeling or message. It celebrates our differences and unique styles of dance. Dancing can be unforgiving, but I learned from this experience that its not where I should be as a dancer but where I am right now that is important. I gained confidence and a responsibility…”
Student – Independence High School, San Jose
“Oh, my gosh…it was more fun than I thought it would be… It was interesting and I personally think it brought everybody closer together. All we were doing was laughing and sharing secrets with one another. Before we went down, we gathered up and said a little words. I wasn’t that nervous when we performed. It was just exciting to know that the judges liked us, so will everybody else…”
High School Directors
Elizabeth Evans, ArtQuest Dance Company, Santa Rosa High School
“There seems to be so little room for the arts in our culture these days, which is a shame because we need the arts now more than ever. My students had the opportunity to feel valued for their creative work and that means so very much. The experience was invaluable for my students and me…”
Janine Nolfi, Director, Mercy High School San Francisco
“… The program enabled my students to take their dance experience a step further. Being thrown together with dance professionals, local company dancers and other high school dancers was an invaluable gift and inspiration to all that participated. It also reinforced why I do what I do and presented a forum that supported and gave insight to ways to develop further in my creative process. Words cannot express the fantastic experience the VISION Series lends to its participants. Everyone involved dances away with a feeling of accomplishment and pride…”
Lauren Manduke, Past Director, Sequioa High School
“… both myself and my students were able to grow artistically and expand knowledge through this valuable and unique endeavor. It expanded community support, integrated many levels of performers and choreographers and allowed my students to use their imaginations in ways they never thought possible. Most of all, they felt their messages were being acknowledged and applauded, regardless of expertise.”
Maggie Fongheiser, Director, Crystal Springs Upland
… my dancers gained much from the classes and observing the performances. It was the combination of high school and emerging artists that really impressed them. They were able to compare and contrast choreography, motivation, performance quality, etc. I hope you will continue to do this…You are presenting a wonderful educational experience that students of dance seldom get. Thank you!
Nina Mayer, Dance Program Director, George Washington High School
“I just wanted to let you know what a gift you are to the dance community and to potential art enthusiasts everywhere. BRAVO! It is a one-of-a-kind modern dance festival and it is a life-changing experience for all. This is the only opportunity for students, parents, adults and dancers have to open their minds and their hearts to the awesome powers of dance. Words cannot express what a gift you are to us and to the community at large.”
2- Emerging Companies/Audience
