The CSD Half Day program dancers after performing “Ghost Lights” at the 2019 YAGP Finals
By all reports, the Caulfield School of Dance Half Day program dancers’ performance of Amber Funk Barton’s “Ghost Lights,” was a hit at the Youth American Grand Prix Finals in New York.
Kaia Neal loved her experience competing as a YAGP finalist
Kaia Neal, age 14, was selected to also compete at the Finals with her Classical solo variation, Princess Florine from The Sleeping Beauty, prepared by Cori Caulfield; and her Contemporary solo, “Requiem,” choreographed by Hailley Caulfield Postle with Cori Caulfield, and prepared by Cori Caulfield. Kaia said: “The New York finals was an experience I will never forget. Just being there among some of the best dancers in the world was such a great opportunity. I met so many talented people and made many new friends who made my time there just that much better. I learned so much from the masterclasses I took, not only from the teachers but by watching all the other amazing dancers as well. It was extra special when the half day team arrived in New York to preform our group dance Ghost Lights. I am so inspired and will come back with even more dedication and motivation than before. Thank you so much to all of my teachers for helping me along the way and making it possible for me to even be there. A huge thank you to YAGP as well for inviting me to this amazing event it was so much fun.”
Ms Jocelyn with the Caulfield Half Day dancers at Lincoln Center
Jocelyn Wozencroft, the head of Half Day program, accompanied the dancers, and said of the “Ghost Lights” performance: “The dancers had the run of their lives. They came with open hearts and extreme commitment and it showed! I couldn’t be prouder of them! Ms Amber’s choreography shined and the dancers high caliber of training was evident. Bravo dancers!”
CSD dancers with NYC Ballet Principal dancer Tiler Peck (and friend) outside Lincoln Center
Carrie Coulter, who is a CSD instructor and the Mom of Half Day dancer, Madison said: “These past few days in New York for the YAGP Finals, were simply incredible! From the amazing performance the CSD Ballet & Contemporary Half Day dancers gave of Amber Funk-Barton’s ‘Ghost Lights’, to the camaraderie amongst the group made it an experience they won’t ever forget! The icing on the cake has to be the students watching the stars of the ballet world today performing for them at the gala! Incredibly inspiring for them to see where all this hard work can take them. Bravo dancers!!”
Tannis, dancer Kaia Goddard’s Mom said, “It was incredible to see the cultural impact in the performances from South Korea, Brazil, Paraguay, Haiti, Italy, Japan, and more! To me, it demonstrates how dance transcends location. Dance is a universal language that bonds across cultures and brings people together. What a joy to witness.”
Congratulations dancers! And thank you to everyone for your support of the fundraising efforts that helped to make this trip possible.
