The Auroris Dance Company is back at it again! The company has once again qualified for state and will be performing for this year’s Illinois High School Dance Festival on April 30 at Lyons Township High School. 22 high schools auditioned for this year’s state festival, and eleven schools were selected to participate. The Auroris Dance Company will be participating at the festival for their fifth consecutive year.

This year’s selected dance will be “One Flame”, choreographed by Sally Le and Cindy Liang. “One Flame” will be performed by dancers Kevin Dumagpi, Marcus Ambubuyog, Chloe Ballais, Alexis Benitez, Jasmine Gloria, Sally Le, Cindy Liang, Kagen Quiballo, Jazmyn Trinos, Gabby Ubaldo, and Jisha Varughese.

“I’m beyond speechless that Cindy and I’s dance has been selected for this year’s festival. I never thought it would have gone this far, but it wouldn’t have been successful without our directors and I’m incredibly proud of all of the dancers in my piece,” Sally Le, sophomore, said.

The Illinois High School Dance Festival is an annual showcase featuring various high schools and professional choreographers. The festival enhances every participant’s experience with four master classes (with some classes taught by Niles North alumni Stacy Joseph and Terry Turner), a professional company performance and a student choreography showcase. High schools are given the full opportunity to take master classes of various styles with Chicago’s elite dance instructors and choreographers. Students across the state are able to create positive connection among their peers, expand one’s experiences and knowledge through unique styles of dance, and simply enjoying the art of dance.

“It’s amazing seeing all the diversity and talent all in one room. I learned through taking classes at state that even though you think you might be good, there’s always room for improvement and you can only go home a better dancer,” Jisha Varughese, senior, said.

Come support the Auroris Dance Company for all their dedication and hard work on April 30 at Lyons Township High School, and witness many incredibly talented groups performing for this year’s showcase.