Dance team places second at first competition

The 12 girls on dance team placed second in jazz, fourth in lyrical, third in hip hop and second in extra small at their first competition at Valley Christian High School on Jan. 20.

The team consists of freshman Isabelle Lee; sophomores Joelle Compeau, Kaitlyn Thompson, Lillian Wang and Nicole Wong; juniors Francesca Chu, Lidya Demisee, Alexandra Li, Chloe Peng, Mira Spendlove and Amy Tang; and senior Caitlyn Chen.

According to coach Kaitlyn Landeza, getting feedback from judges has helped the girls substantially.

“Listening to what the judges have to say about the team’s formations, technique, choreography, appearance and showmanship is really helpful because I can give the girls specific critiques based on the judges’ comments,” Landenza said.

The team’s last minute hip hop choreography led them to a time crunch in preparation for their first competition. The old choreography was scrapped and team members Chu, Li, and Tang, along with alumna Madison Seagraves, re-choreographed the competition dance in December.

At the following competition on Jan. 27, the team also presented two solos, competed by Li and Tang.

Neither of the girls had competed a solo before, and as their first time rolled around, anticipation and nerves were high.

“I was excited to perform a solo, but I was also kind of nervous because some of the girls from other schools are insanely good,” Li said.

The team will be attending a total of four competitions this year, including USA Nationals in March.