For the first time since the pandemic, the Rio Hondo Dance Program will be having a public dance performance, “In Motion.” It will take place on Friday, Dec. 2, at 7 p.m,. as well as Saturday, Dec. 3, at 2 p.m. in the Wray Theater. Admission will be free, but, for $10 you may enter a raffle to win a prize organized by dancers. The proceeds will go towards helping the dance program attend the 2023 American College Dance Association Conference at UC Irvine. The contemporary dance performance will include works from different Rio Hondo alumni, local dance studios, and local high school dance team. 

One feature works include “Silence Speaks” by David Bernal-Fuentes. This is a narrative piece by a Rio alumni. It delves into themes of silence, its consequences, and its benefits. The quote, “There is a time to keep silent, and a time to speak” inspired Bernal-Fuentes to create this dance piece. It was performed at multiple American College Dance Association Gala Concerts. He recently graduated from Cal State University Long Beach (CSULB) with a bachelors of fine arts in dance, as well as a minor in psychology.

Another featured work is Rivka Villanueva’s, “The Wren: Para Mi Abuela.” This piece is personal and emotive for choreographer Villanueva, and will be performed by Montebello High School dancers. Rivka Villanueva is a Guatemalan Mexican artist and Rio Alumni who has also recently graduated from CSULB. There, she received a bachelor of fine arts in dance. 

“In Motion” will also include dance performances by Schurr High school’s dance team. Ms. Vanessa Gomez will be leading the team in a hip hop performance choreographed by Maia Ayala. Local dance studio UNET, with its students, ages 5-12, will also be performing a piece of their own. 

Be sure to save the date, and join the Rio Hondo Dance Program as they return to the stage for a brand new show, “In Motion.”