Welcome to PLAYBILLDER Spotlight, where Playbill highlights shows from educational institutions or regional theatres and special events around the country (who have used Playbill's program-building service). By welcoming these PLAYBILLDERs center stage, we hope to give our readers a more in-depth look at theatre programs that are fostering the love of the performing arts in the next generation and the way theatre lovers are bringing Playbill along for life's big moments.
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This week's Spotlight is Rye Country Day School of Rye, New York, and their Spring Dance Performance. Presented with The Cedar Street Dance Company, it featured choreography by middle and upper school dance teacher Ingrid Ciaccia, student choreographer Eleanor Brown, dance co-captains Alyssa Chu and Isabella Jolicoeur, and dance company members Mali Gueye and Sydney Richardson. Using the music of Billie Eilish, Lady Gaga, and Beyoncé, among others, 40 students ages 12 to 18 showcased a variety of dance styles, including contemporary, ballet, and jazz.
Ciaccia shared with Playbill why her proudest moment as an educator struck her during this most recent performance, the ways her performing arts program is using PLAYBILLDER to appeal to prospective students, and her empowering message for her students as they take the stage.
How many years have you been teaching?
Ingrid Ciaccia: I have been teaching dance for six years.
What is your proudest moment as an educator?
One of my proudest moments as an educator was watching my middle and upper school students prepare for our most recent performance. Seeing students—ages 12 to 18—come together on stage, all engaged in the “Ciaccia (Cha-cha) Warm-up,” a series I created and teach to dancers of all ages and levels, was incredibly special. I turned around to see 40 students smiling back at me as they moved in sync, and at that moment, I knew we had found a common language. It was a truly beautiful experience.
Can you share a little bit about the value you see in having a performing arts program in schools?
Having performing arts programs in schools is essential. The arts teach students how to strive for excellence, overcome their fears, perform with confidence, and work collaboratively as an ensemble—skills that are invaluable in becoming responsible and engaged citizens. Dance, in particular, helps students connect with their bodies, express themselves, and stay present in the moment—something we could all use a little more of these days.
What are the kids loving about the show?
Students have especially loved this performance because it highlights so many different styles of dance, including ballet, contemporary, and jazz. They thrive on learning new movements and exploring various genres. This show beautifully reflects their growth and creativity in an educational setting.
What message do you have for your students as they take the stage?
My message to all students as they take the stage is to find that moment when they are truly present. When the world seems to pause, and they can hear their heartbeat, feel their breath, and blink with awareness. Look out into the audience and embrace every second of the experience. You are courageous, and what you have to share matters.
What reactions do you expect to see in students when they see their name printed in this Playbill for the first time?
When students see their names printed in a Playbill for the first time, it’s such a joyful and meaningful experience. I always encourage them to write a brief biography so they can share more about themselves with the audience. It’s important for students to feel proud of their hard work, and the Playbill serves as a wonderful way to showcase and archive their achievements.
How has PLAYBILLDER impacted your performing arts program as a resource?
PLAYBILLDER has provided an excellent way to showcase our productions professionally for our audience and archive them for our own records, as well as for prospective students.
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