The Dance Department presented excerpts from the classical ballet, “La Bayadere,” translated as “the temple dancer” on Apr. 12 with 62 students in grades eight through 12  performing.

Dance teacher Micki Kolberg said, “The ballet was choreographed by Marius Petipa, a renowned 19th century French ballet master, to the haunting music of Ludwig Minkus ‘La Bayadere.’” The story takes place in India where a young temple dancer, Nikiya, and Prince Solor fall deeply in love.

“Their love is forbidden because Prince Solor is betrothed to the kingdom’s princess. Nikiya meets a tragic end, dying in the name of love.”

Senior Lynse Chock said, “I played the role of Nikiya, which was wonderful. She had a great story that was exciting, yet elegant.”

The Dance Department has previously performed excerpts of “The Nutcracker and Swan Lake.”

Chock who has been dancing for six years said, “This was our first time doing ‘La Bayadere.’ It was a very different style from the other two that we performed because it had an Indian feel and beat to the music and overall storyline.”

Kolberg said, “The choreography for this piece required precise technique, musical artistry and unrelenting stamina.

“There were four seniors who performed solo roles in the performance Angelique Puesta, Ashley Bondoc, Tiera Knight and Lynse. For all the girls who did solos, I tried to choose one that would complement their level of technique and artistry, challenge them in some way and showcase their strengths. I chose Lynse for that variation that would allow her to work on her artistry and stamina, all challenging her en pointe.”

This was the final dance concert of the year.

Knight said, “All of us seniors were very excited for our last dance. We prepared our best and at the end of the dance felt so accomplished and proud of what we have done through our dance program here at the Academy.”