Santa Fe College announced on March 31 that its annual dance showcase, “Elements of Style,” will take place at the Jackson N. Sasser Fine Arts Hall in Gainesville on April 3 and 4 at 7:30 p.m.
The event highlights the range and diversity of Santa Fe College’s dance program, offering audiences a chance to see performances in seven different styles. More than 30 students are set to perform works spanning classical, contemporary, and culturally influenced dance forms.
This year’s concert features two pieces that were selected for the Gala at the American College Dance Association Southeast Region Conference, marking a first for Santa Fe College’s Dance program. The works include “NOID,” a contemporary hip hop piece choreographed by alum Garrett Perry, now studying at the University of Florida, and “Unsaid,” a contemporary ballet pas de deux by Assistant Professor Jessie Dominguez.
Five new pieces will also premiere during the event: “Waltz of the Flowers” (classical ballet) by Dominguez; “A Place in Ourselves” (jazz) by Adjunct Assistant Professor Harley O’Neill; traditional West African dance and drumming led by Adjunct Associate Professor Mohamed DaCosta; “Until There’s Nothing Left” (contemporary), choreographed by Assistant Professor Melissa Brenner to Heart’s song “Barracuda”; and musical theatre number “Blow, Gabriel, Blow” from Anything Goes by Adjunct Assistant Professor Calypso May Haddad.
Assistant Professor Melissa Brenner said “We’re committed to delivering a dynamic, well‑rounded education that not only prepares students to reach their goals but inspires them to think bigger about what dance can be. Our students train directly with accomplished faculty, innovative visiting artists, and a vibrant community of peers who push them to grow. In our rehearsal processes, they dive into the cultural and historical roots of diverse movement styles, gaining a powerful understanding of their place in the broader dance lineage. The qualities they develop here — confidence, discipline, creativity, critical thinking, and a strong sense of community —give them a competitive edge in any career field.”
Students also gain professional-level production experience through collaboration with technical theater staff and fellow students as part of their training for real-world performance environments.
Tickets are available at the Fine Arts Hall box office or online via Showpass. Admission is free for Santa Fe College students, faculty members, and staff with identification.
