Dance Conservatory students at the School of The Arts (SOTA) at Central Gwinnett High School had the pleasure of working with the distinguished choreographer, Darrell Moultrie, this month. Moultrie has worked with widely recognized talent, dance companies, and artists, including the Juilliard School, Atlanta Ballet, Savion Glover, and Beyoncé, and is choreographing a piece for the dance program's Spring Show in May. 

With the desire to maintain the rigor in SOTA's pre-professional program, Dance Department Chair Lonnie Davis has been intentional about training dancers for success.

“It requires a consistent level of training to create that type of work in a short amount of time," Davis shares. "He only had eight hours in those three days... very similar to that of a professional company. The students have to first be disciplined, technically proficient, and open to the process”. 

The Spring Show’s theme is “Stage to Screen,” featuring works of music that come from motion picture soundtracks or musicals that were made into films. More than 140 students from SOTA’s conservatory, fellows, introduction to dance classes, and backstage assistance will participate. 

Arayel, a 9th-grade dance student, says, “Mr. Moultrie has opened my eyes to a different way of thinking not only in dance but in real life as well."

Davis adds, “Having Darrell as our first guest choreographer was a huge blessing. Someone with his talent is always in demand. My team and I have had to work diligently at developing a conservatory culture and mindset. While sitting in Darrell's rehearsal, I could see that the dancers were able to handle the pace and technical demands of his aesthetic. He even commented on it and was very pleased with the outcome. It was very reaffirming to see them take on this challenge, and it lit the dancers' fire even more. This is just the beginning. I'm thrilled that I've now been contacted by several choreographers wanting to come create on our dancers.”