Dance Fusion 2024: A Spectacular Showcase of Talent and Passion

On Wednesday, 12 June, West College Scotland’s Dance students dazzled audiences at the Beacon Arts Centre with their highly anticipated end-of-year showcase, Dance Fusion. 

This event marked the culmination of a year’s hard work, featuring a phenomenal range of dance genres from jazz to contemporary, set to music by hit artists like Beyoncé, and narratively rich performances inspired by scenes from Hercules and Moulin Rouge.

Backstage, the atmosphere was electric, filled with a blend of excitement and nerves. The students’ passion and dedication to dance shone through as they eagerly awaited their turn to perform and display their hard-earned skills to friends and family.

HND students Daniel Taylor and Ashton McKernan highlighted their favourite piece, ‘Class of 84,’ a unique blend of commercial and contemporary dance choreographed by fellow HND student Cara Hutchinson. This piece poignantly tells the story of the working class in 1984. Ashton also performed a contemporary solo piece, ‘Stuck,’ which she choreographed for her graded unit. Ashton said, “Performing on your own is a bit scary, but I’ve done it a few times now so I’m getting used to it. I’m excited for my family and friends to see it.” Reflecting on her college experience, she added, “It’s been the best two years of my life. Getting to do what you love and want to do every day is a privilege.”

HNC student Megan Cush, in her first year of the course, expressed her enthusiasm for the Moulin Rouge piece. “As more of a hip hop dancer, it’s a totally different style for me and has helped me to improve on my jazz,” she said. “It’s the first show I’ve done in a couple of years, so I’m a bit nervous, but I know it’s going to be great.”

Beth Campbell, another HNC student, also favoured the Moulin Rouge piece for its numerous lifts. Beth had the opportunity to perform a solo piece, ‘Coffins,’ which she choreographed to a Gaelic poem. Being from a Gaelic-speaking family in Skye, Beth felt a strong connection to the piece. “I was shocked but really chuffed to be asked to perform my piece at the show, especially as there are so many talented dancers who all deserve it. I’m very grateful and glad to see Gaelic get that platform,” she commented.

For the NC students, this showcase marked their first with West College Scotland. They expressed excitement and nerves, with their favourite piece being Hercules due to its upbeat nature, storytelling, and comedic elements. Reflecting on their year, they said, “It’s been a great year that’s gone by so fast. We’ve all gelled really well and grown even closer during the week of rehearsals.”

Curriculum Quality Leader, Gillian Desjacques, praised the event, stating, “It was an honour to present this exciting body of work. I know, like me, the students are incredibly grateful to the staff behind the scenes who, year after year, work above and beyond to ensure the highest quality learning experience is received. I’d like to thank the students themselves. They are the heart of our experience and never cease to surprise, inspire, innovate, and excite. The show was a huge success, and we are immensely proud of each and every one of them and look forward to following their journeys as they embark on what we know will be a successful future in the creative industries.”