SAN MATEO, Calif.—For some dance studios, the competition held in San Mateo in February was the first time they had come out in full force since the pandemic began three years ago.
Held at the impressive 1,600-seat San Mateo Performing Arts Center, the event showcased some newcomers, such as San Francisco High School of the Arts (HSArts), which swept the competition in the events they entered with five 1st-place awards among seven contestant studios, earning recognition for its exceptional choreography. The team also brought home the highest overall score for a studio at the competition.
HSArts’s performance of five 1st-place awards out of 7 entries was a 71 percent winning performance, and it received the top award for every event it entered. HSArts was followed by West Coast Dance Conservatory, which won five 1st-place awards out of 9 entries.
California Dance Academy received six 1st-place awards out of 21 entries, while Jazz N Taps Dance Studio had a very strong showing with 18 top awards out of 55 entries. Other participants included KAST Academy with two 1st-place awards out of 21 entries, Dreamspace Dance & Performing Arts, and Performing Arts Academy of Marin.
One standout member of the HSArts team was Hanna Zhang, who was recognized as the best choreographer at the event. Her skills and creativity shone through in the team’s routines, which wowed both the judges and the audience.
“I’m so happy and proud of my students’ hard work and the judges’ recognition. Chinese elements bring beauty and hope to everyone, and Chinese dance is worthy to be known to the world. Thanks [for] my students’ and their parents’ support, and all of the staff’s help. I will try my best to choreograph more pieces,” Zhang said.
Their performances featured classical Chinese dance, a traditional dance form that has a long history dating back 5,000 years. This ancient art form has evolved over time to become a sophisticated and graceful form that incorporates a range of movements, techniques, and styles. The movements in classical Chinese dance were what really stood out in the performance, characterized by their flowing, circular, and graceful nature.
Unique to the Bay Area, San Francisco High School of the Arts is the only private arts school for students in grades 6–12. Just steps from Golden Gate Park, HSArts offers students a path to self-mastery through professional arts training and rigorous academics. The highly credentialed faculty give each student the individualized support and attention he or she deserves.
HSArts students go on to attend top universities, pursuing the arts and other fields.
“The dance training not only has helped our students to be beautiful dancers but also excellent scholars. It is wonderful to see hard work get rewarded!” said Dr. Sherry Zhang, head of HSArts.
The team credited the win as a testament to their hard work, dedication, and talent. For audience members and judges, the unique blend of traditional dance styles set them apart.
Susan Chen, the mother of one of the competing HSArts students, shared how proud she was of her daughter’s hard work.
“It has been pure awe and joy to watch Madeleine’s dance skills and techniques improve under Ms. Hanna’s guidance during training for her very first competition,” Chen said. “As for Madeleine, the competition was eye opening as she got to see various dance styles and performances all under one roof. She also appreciates the feedback from the judges to help her improve.”
