After
the Premiers had performed and prior to the announcement
of the winners we were able to sit back and enjoy a
stunning presentation of the New Advanced 2 Modern Syllabus.
It was wonderful to see Miss Daphne Peterson on stage,
who, with her usual charm and humour, introduced the
new Syllabus work. She firstly spoke of her dear friend
Miss Bird, whom Miss Peterson said “was an exceptional
lady in the world of dance” and in referring to
the awards, she knew "Miss Bird would be thrilled
to see the standard of work today". Then introducing
the new Advanced 2 syllabus work, Miss Peterson generously
congratulated "The Team", and said they had
created a well balanced body of work that required technical
prowess and sheer artistry. The Modern work had been
"lifted higher whilst retaining the Modern roots
which had stood the test of time."
The
demonstrators, who gave their all, showing their passion
for dance and their technical prowess, had been coached
by the team and came from Bird College, Laine Theatre
Arts and Performers College. It was very exciting to
see this first performance.
Mr
Luis De Abreu, Artistic Director of Bird College, spoke
warmly and sincerely of Miss Bird. His speech encapsulated
the career and achievements of a remarkable lady who
touched so many lives. He then conducted the presentation
of the Premier awards, which also included an award
to the school of the Premier winner. In presenting her
award, Miss Passmore eloquently recognised the work
of the dance teacher.
Three
words were repeatedly used throughout the day in reference
to Miss Bird: “Inspiration, Passion, Commitment”.
Miss Bird was passionate about creativity. A great choreographer
herself, she nurtured and encouraged her students to
develop this skill. Miss Sue Town told how Miss Bird
would describe the necessity of the choreography to
“take you on a journey” and some of the
choreographers achieved this at this first ‘Creation’.
The
day was excellently organised by the Modern Theatre
Faculty committee and a team of examiners who gave their
time willingly to help the day run smoothly. Congratulations
to all. And finally to quote Luis De Abreu “Creation
was an appropriate tribute to a much loved and admired
lady.”
Jackie
Hayward
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