BY ANNIE ZHOU ’26
The Jericho High School Dance Department brought energy, creativity, and school spirit to the stage with its annual Choreo performance. This year’s theme was “Dancing Through the Decades.” The show was held on May 28 and 29 in the Jericho High School auditorium. Featuring student dancers from grades 9 through 12, the two-night event celebrated music and dance from different eras while showcasing the talent and dedication of Jericho students.
“Dancing Through the Decades” took audiences on a journey through a variety of musical styles and time periods. Performances included dances set to songs by artists such as Bruno Mars, Ricky Martin, Pitbull, Barry Manilow, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. From upbeat group numbers like “Uptown Funk,” “Rhythm Nation,” and “Copacabana,” to emotional pieces such as “Cry Me a River” and “Baby Grand,” the show highlighted a wide range of dance styles and artistic expression.
According to Choreo Assistant Director Ms. Alyssa Lionetti, “This well-attended event is the highlight of the year for many families, friends, faculty, and community members.” Ms. Lionetti explained that students spend months preparing for Choreo through both classwork and after-school rehearsals while developing technical skills, creativity, and leadership abilities. She also noted that she and Dance Director Ms. Jenna Corbett selected “Dancing Through the Decades” to showcase music and dance styles from multiple generations.
For the dancers, Choreo represents months of preparation and hard work. Sydney C. ’27 said her favorite dance to perform was “Eternity,” a contemporary piece that required dancers to express strong emotions through movement. “I thought the moves were beautiful, and it was really fun to dance the choreography,” she said. Sydney explained that preparations for Choreo begin early in the school year, giving dancers and student choreographers plenty of time to develop and perfect their performances.
One of the most memorable moments came at the conclusion of Friday’s show during the Senior Flower Ceremony. Following the final performance, Ms. Corbett and Ms. Lionetti presented flowers to the graduating seniors of the Class of 2026. The tradition honored the senior dancers’ years of dedication to the dance program and marked their final Choreo performance as Jericho High School students.
Michelle Z. ’26 described the experience as both emotional and rewarding. “I felt really honored but at the same time bittersweet,” she said. “It had always been me sitting there watching my upperclassmen, and now, really sitting in their place, I felt so proud of all the way I’ve gone.” Michelle explained that Choreo has been a meaningful part of her high school experience, and it has displayed her growth and accomplishments over the years. The Senior Flower Ceremony was one of Michelle’s favorite memories in the dance program, as she felt that all her hard work from previous years had paid off.
By combining music and movement, Choreo 2026 successfully celebrated both the history of popular music and the accomplishments of Jericho’s student dancers. As the curtain closed on another successful production, the audience left with lasting memories of a performance that honored the past while celebrating the future.
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