Jeff Shade teaches three hour master dance class to Ambridge High School Musical students Photo Credit: Alan Freed Photography/ Ambridge Connection
Last weekend, Ambridge musical students were able to participate in a three hour master dance class taught by Jeff Shade.
Jeff Shade has danced on Broadway in several shows including "Chicago" and was the dance captain, according to Dance Educators of America.
Shade has an master's degree in dance therapy--psychotherapy that includes the creative arts--and he also has been on the faculty of Harvard University, the Boston Conservatory, Marymount Manhattan College, Montclair State University, STEPS on BROADWAY, CAP 21, and Point Park University.
"It's incredibly exciting for AAHS students to be coached by Jeff Shade. Jeff is talented and knowledgeable and, partly because of his larger-than-life enthusiasm, was able to get these kids to learn very specific Bob Fosse moves," said Brenda Menjivar, musical director.
This year, the selected Ambridge Area High School musical is "Chicago," but administrators had to decide whether to allow the show to go forward or have students perform a different production.
Rich Aquino, a parent to one of the students and Menjivar meet with Principal Janice Zupsic today at about the decision to more forward with the play. The meeting was described by Menjivar as " very pleasant and positive", the play was approved.
"The kids hung on his words, didn't leave the gym for breaks and were sad when the workshop was over. The AAHS musical family feels thankful for the opportunity to work with this Fosse protege" added Menjivar.
After the class, Jeff Shade shared that "Chicago is a show that is near and dear to my heart. I went to a dance academy for Chicago in Broadway and it is the choreography of Bob Fosse, and Bob Fosse was my mentor and any time I get to share that is great."
"Bring me back anytime to Ambridge. The kids were great, focused and talented " added Shade.
Shade has an master's degree in dance therapy--psychotherapy that includes the creative arts--and he also has been on the faculty of Harvard University, the Boston Conservatory, Marymount Manhattan College, Montclair State University, STEPS on BROADWAY, CAP 21, and Point Park University.
"It's incredibly exciting for AAHS students to be coached by Jeff Shade. Jeff is talented and knowledgeable and, partly because of his larger-than-life enthusiasm, was able to get these kids to learn very specific Bob Fosse moves," said Brenda Menjivar, musical director.
This year, the selected Ambridge Area High School musical is "Chicago," but administrators had to decide whether to allow the show to go forward or have students perform a different production.
Rich Aquino, a parent to one of the students and Menjivar meet with Principal Janice Zupsic today at about the decision to more forward with the play. The meeting was described by Menjivar as " very pleasant and positive", the play was approved.
"The kids hung on his words, didn't leave the gym for breaks and were sad when the workshop was over. The AAHS musical family feels thankful for the opportunity to work with this Fosse protege" added Menjivar.
After the class, Jeff Shade shared that "Chicago is a show that is near and dear to my heart. I went to a dance academy for Chicago in Broadway and it is the choreography of Bob Fosse, and Bob Fosse was my mentor and any time I get to share that is great."
"Bring me back anytime to Ambridge. The kids were great, focused and talented " added Shade.
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