The January 30th performance of “How Love Goes” defied all expectations, revealing the West Orange High School dance program as a pillar of the school’s catalog.
As we entered the auditorium, lit with a moody purple and pink, we couldn’t help but feel the anticipation coursing through the packed crowd. In the distance, a preview of the program’s soundtrack seemed to welcome us and set the stage for the upcoming show.
While bringing her vision to life, dance teacher Melissa Sande did not work alone. Prior to the show, she acknowledged those who helped further the process and expressed gratitude for their assistance. Rutgers teaching intern Brielle Castaldi played an integral role in developing each piece, from the music to the choreography; fashion teacher Ms. Romano fine-tuned costumes; environmental teacher Mr. Ficuciello photographed the classes; the first-level dancers laid down the floor; and senior Ainara Bouzas choreographed her dance.
This year’s production proved to be the biggest show yet, with 60 students participating. So, an exchange of energy was encouraged. Ms. Sande implored the audience to cheer, clap, or shout when they felt particularly moved by a piece. Further, the crowd transformed into a dance class before our eyes when we were taught parts of a dance to follow along with the finale.
In a dynamic 35-minute showcase that explored the complexities of life through movement, all two dance level classes— Dance Performance Skills (Intermediate periods 3 & 8) and Honors Advanced Dance—delivered a spectacular performance. Each class performed 2-3 dances each. The show featured a powerful selection of songs that elevated each routine. Honors Advanced Dance captivated the audience with Angel of My Dreams by JADE and 6’s to 9’s by Big Wild & Rationale while also performing All for Us by Labrinth, a piece choreographed by senior Ainara Bouzas.
The period 8 Dance Performance Skills class brought fluidity and grace to Running by Beyoncé and Love Goes by Sam Smith, alluring the crowd with the emotion of each piece.
The Period 3 Dance Performance Skills delivered an unforgettable rendition of Can’t Take My Eyes Off You by Lauryn Hill and Latch by Sam Smith—showcasing a perfect balance of strength and softness.
However, the highlight of the night, we thought, was a breathtaking duet by Ainara Bouzas and Mimi Favetta, a piece called Won’t Let Go. Their chemistry left a lasting impression, bringing a deeply personal and expressive moment to the stage.
Finally, in what seemed like a matter of minutes, the finale piece was here. All 3 periods came together for a high-energy, show-stopping conclusion to Lose My Breath by Destiny’s Child. The stage pulsed with movement as the 60 dancers fed off each other’s energy, seamlessly blending styles and levels into one electrifying performance.
The crowd, already engaged throughout the night, erupted in cheers, clapping along to the beat, some even standing up and dancing along to the performance.
Beyond providing a dazzling night of entertainment for the audience, “How Love Goes” served a greater purpose: advocating for an expanded dance education and program in West Orange. Ms. Sande expressed her goal of establishing dance programs for all grade levels so students have access to dance education throughout their school years. She urged the audience to help raise awareness for this initiative while also emphasizing the importance of dance as a form of artistic expression and physical well-being.
As the finale came to an end, the dancers struck their last pose, breathless but beaming. The audience’s applause was immediate and loud— a testament to the talent, dedication, and heart poured into “How Love Goes.” In just 35 minutes, the West Orange dance program had proven its place as an essential part of the school’s artistic community, leaving everyone in the auditorium with one undeniable feeling: this was a night to remember.
