“Descend”. The dictionary defines the word as going down or falling, but the Laguna Beach High School dancers gave it a new meaning. With a stunning debut on November 30th, 2023, and running two more shows on December 2nd, months of work finally paid off before the spectators’ eyes. The student-commissioned concert was a magical experience for everyone in the audience, shining light on their moves and dedication.

Estee Fraztke’s dancers from Dance Company and Dance II and III had spent countless hours perfecting their routines leading up to the performances. The students choreograph almost all of the routines, some drawing inspiration from their favorite dancers, putting their own twist on it, and others inventing them from scratch with the collaboration and genius of the leaders in each group. Dancers such as Chase Benson, a senior at LBHS and president of the K-pop club, along with Sienna McCarthy, a fellow senior and team captain of the Dance Company, are two of the many student choreographers. They incorporate various styles with Latin fusion, from ballet to K-pop to hip-hop. Every one of them has their own unique flare, unlike any other.

Fraztke’s dancers aren’t the only ones performing in Descend; both K-Pop and World Music clubs appeared at this event. K-pop club brings its sharp and precise style with underlying influences from hip-hop and jazz representing Korean pop culture. They utilize songs from their favorite groups and dance their hearts out to the upbeat songs. World Music Club was assembled to illuminate dancers who enjoy music and style from other cultures or languages. Their dances are composed of various songs from foreign languages that add a whole new dimension to Descend’s performance. 

Although these performers are the show’s stars, many forces behind the scenes bring everything together. They were all assisted by lighting, stage design, and tech professionals, as well as our multimedia class here at the school, which designed and helped create the art for posters and t-shirts advertising the event. 

“Descend” was a performance that took my breath away. It was beautiful in every aspect, from the music choice to the dances with the audience on the edge of their seats. These “fallen stars” did an excellent job, and we look forward to their next performance.