A MESSAGE FROM THE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
Our Dearest Audience,
Dance Reflections originated over 30 years ago, in 1988, as a teen competitive dance team. After several years of competing and ranking amongst the best in the state, we happily abolished our competition team in search of a more fulfilling and artistic outlet. A decade later a new Reflections was born, this time as a pre-professional performance company.
The goal was to create a safe environment for some of our most promising students to grow as dancers and as young people. Dance Reflections quickly became an avenue to give back to the community through local performances, fundraisers, veteran’s homes, nursing homes, etc. Throughout the years, our dancers have raised money for various charities, shared their work internationally and even, from time to time, placed first in the occasional dance competition (for fun).
Their work, both on stage and off, has been challenging, exploratory and has given them all a true sense of professionalism. Each month, the dancers work with a different choreographer who sets an original or re-imagined work on them. By working with various professionals, each dancer takes away something unique from each artist and has the opportunity to apply it in their weekly dance training. Aside from their weekend rehearsals, the entire company meets every week for their company ballet class, where they train alongside one another and continue growing and learning from each other. Over the years, our Dance Reflections dancers have always formed a very special bond that has proven to truly last a lifetime.
Today we are pleased to present you the work from the past twelve months, eighteen choreographers and twenty-two dedicated dancers. Throughout the course of this year, our dancers were encouraged to master new techniques, learn from new artists and explore different styles: enthusiastically culminating in this wonderful performance today.
So without further ado, we hope you enjoy DanceScapes 2025!
With love and profound gratitude,
Alessandra Valea
Dance Reflections originated over 30 years ago, in 1988, as a teen competitive dance team. After several years of competing and ranking amongst the best in the state, we happily abolished our competition team in search of a more fulfilling and artistic outlet. A decade later a new Reflections was born, this time as a pre-professional performance company.
The goal was to create a safe environment for some of our most promising students to grow as dancers and as young people. Dance Reflections quickly became an avenue to give back to the community through local performances, fundraisers, veteran’s homes, nursing homes, etc. Throughout the years, our dancers have raised money for various charities, shared their work internationally and even, from time to time, placed first in the occasional dance competition (for fun).
Their work, both on stage and off, has been challenging, exploratory and has given them all a true sense of professionalism. Each month, the dancers work with a different choreographer who sets an original or re-imagined work on them. By working with various professionals, each dancer takes away something unique from each artist and has the opportunity to apply it in their weekly dance training. Aside from their weekend rehearsals, the entire company meets every week for their company ballet class, where they train alongside one another and continue growing and learning from each other. Over the years, our Dance Reflections dancers have always formed a very special bond that has proven to truly last a lifetime.
Today we are pleased to present you the work from the past twelve months, eighteen choreographers and twenty-two dedicated dancers. Throughout the course of this year, our dancers were encouraged to master new techniques, learn from new artists and explore different styles: enthusiastically culminating in this wonderful performance today.
So without further ado, we hope you enjoy DanceScapes 2025!
With love and profound gratitude,
Alessandra Valea
DANCE CHOREOGRAPHY SHORT DESCRIPTIONS
ACT ONE
Heart of the Ocean
Choreographed by Kerri & TJ McNeill
In just three minutes, relive James Cameron’s Titanic as you've never seen it before—through a whirlwind of comedic tap dance! Watch as star-crossed lovers Jack and Rose shuffle-ball-change their way through icebergs, sketchy romance, and that famously oversized door—all while the ship rhythmically sinks behind them. Perfect for audiences who love dance, disaster, and a good laugh. Join us as we sink in style!
Soulshine
Choreographed by Asia Vizcaya
This was created to honor a close family-friend of the choreographer who lost their father to pancreatic cancer. He left behind a wife and three children who all struggled to cope with such an unimaginable loss. Even on his last few days, he taught his children to cherish life and to understand "how rare and beautiful it is to even exist." Throughout the piece the weight of loss bears down on the family, almost suffocating in its sorrow—until he gently guides them toward release, showing them how to breathe again and step forward into the light of healing.
Rest In Peace: Robert Bruce Majewski.
I May Need A Chaperone
Choreographed by Annelise Baker
I remain fascinated by the power of the collective. In this piece we see a group of women potentially involved in a cult or specific team - they are all the exact same in their movement. They are poised, stiff, focused, and move completely in sync with one another. When we experience the first notion that someone in the group could waver, we quite literally see the lights flicker and strobe and we realize that everyone in the collective has free will. Then the dance becomes an exploratorium of new freer movement, and individualized discoveries. We end in quite a different spot from where we started. The group has shed their sunglasses and are embodying joy and individuality. One character remains unconvinced of this sudden shift and we see her trying to clinge to the past. However, her efforts are futile. I hope that this piece is invigorating and makes people wonder about the roles they play in their communities.
Foundations
Choreographed by John Barrella
Step into the raw energy of the 90s with this explosive hip hop and breakdance performance—a tribute to the golden era of street culture, boomboxes, and baggy jeans. Fueled by old-school beats and bold attitude, the choreography blends sharp pops, fluid footwork, and gravity-defying spins, capturing the rebellious spirit and electric rhythm that defined a generation.
Jigs & Reels
Choreographed by Julie Gale
In this enchanting ballet, classical grace meets Highland spirit as three proud Scottish clans unite through dance. As the clans weave their stories in harmony, tradition and technique intertwine—celebrating unity, heritage, and the timeless power of movement.
ACT TWO
Unhurried Spaciousness
Choreographed by Holly Jahn
'Unhurried Spaciousness' explores what happens when we find moments to slow down in our busy lives. Inspired by Marie Kondo's book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, this piece reveals how clearing clutter creates time and space for peace and relaxation. The dancers move between fast, hectic patterns and calm, peaceful moments, embodying how our environments influence whether we feel rushed or at ease. As they flow between frantic activity and deliberate stillness, you'll witness—and perhaps experience—how a single deep breath can create a profound sense of spaciousness. This piece holds special significance as my first choreographic work for Reflections since returning to Metuchen Dance Centre after living abroad for over a decade. The fresh environment and new group of dancers have added rich layers to the work, deepening its exploration of how the spaces and people in our lives shape our relationship with time.
At Your Door
Choreographed by Kerri McNeill
This piece is celebration of friendships/relationships enduring strength, a reminder that even when life pulls us in different directions, the bond remains unshaken. The choreography captures how being together allows us to shed the chaos of the world and return to our truest selves. Each step tells the story of laughter, struggle, distance, and reunion-proving that no matter where life takes us, as long as we have each other, we'll always be okay.
From Mind
Choreographed by Katie Camero
This piece was crafted especially for the dancer—long known as the more reserved ballerina—now yearning to unveil her fiercer, untamed self. A single pointe shoe becomes the symbol of this transformation, poised between elegance and rebellion.
Danza Con Fuego
Choreographed by Kelly Beck
Get ready to turn up the heat! This sizzling dance was inspired by a fiery medley of songs and the endless ways movement can ripple like flames. It’s all about sass, rhythm, and fierce musicality. These dancers are bringing the blaze—blending salsa, samba, and spicing things up into one explosive fusion. So get ready to shake your hips, feel the spice, and remember to always dance with fuego!
Sign of the Times
Choreographed by Emma Contursi
Sign of the Times tells the story of a dying mother saying goodbye to her newborn. She bears her heart through the lyrics, and, though afraid, uses her final words to comfort the child. The dancer's seek to emulate her courage. Matching the song's relentless musicality and emotional crescendos, they encourage us to be equally fierce in love and faith.
Multiversal Defense Corps
Choreographed by Barbie Brady
In this high-energy dance performance, superheroes unite with the timeline authority in an epic mission to restore balance across the multiverse. As timelines spiral out of control, powerful choreography blends strength, speed, and precision to tell a story of cosmic chaos and heroic order. With each pulse-pounding move, the team battles rifts in reality—proving that when forces join together, even the wildest timelines can be tamed.
ACT THREE
Exes
Choreographed by Nicole Fox Davis
A bold, tongue-in-cheek anthem that explores the emotional messiness, confidence, and contradictions of modern relationships—especially from a young woman’s perspective of reclaiming her narrative.
Grow with the Flow
Choreographed by Melanie Alyse
This piece journeys through the highs and lows of life, tracing every twist, turn, and moment in between. With each step, we move forward—riding the rhythm of change, growing with the flow, and dancing through it all.
Tribute to Sir Elton
Choreographed by Madison Meredith
Join us as we honor the timeless music and legacy of Elton John! This piece is a tap dance tribute, bringing his iconic hits to life through rhythm and movement. Each song in this medley captures a unique energy, offering a dynamic journey through his musical brilliance. Overall, it’s a vibrant celebration, full of joy, spirit, and the unforgettable sound of one of music’s greatest legends.
Once Upon A Time
Choreographed by Julia Ramirez
Drawing from the dancers’ own imaginations and dreams, this piece evolved into a mosaic of fantasy, creativity, and joy.
You & Me
Choreographed by Sara Martino
Let's focus on the positive community we build through dance and the connection it brings. Meant to bring feelings of peace and tranquility, "You and Me" can inspire all of us to reach out and be a friend to those around us.
Eight to the Bar
Choreographed by Alessandra Valea
Inspired by Fosse's award winning choreography in the infamous Broadway flop; Big Deal! Fusing the playful syncopation of boogie woogie with the timeless flair of classic theatrical jazz, this dance invites you to embrace both style and energy. Let's celebrate the timeless elegance and FUN of jazz in all its glory!
Heart of the Ocean
Choreographed by Kerri & TJ McNeill
In just three minutes, relive James Cameron’s Titanic as you've never seen it before—through a whirlwind of comedic tap dance! Watch as star-crossed lovers Jack and Rose shuffle-ball-change their way through icebergs, sketchy romance, and that famously oversized door—all while the ship rhythmically sinks behind them. Perfect for audiences who love dance, disaster, and a good laugh. Join us as we sink in style!
Soulshine
Choreographed by Asia Vizcaya
This was created to honor a close family-friend of the choreographer who lost their father to pancreatic cancer. He left behind a wife and three children who all struggled to cope with such an unimaginable loss. Even on his last few days, he taught his children to cherish life and to understand "how rare and beautiful it is to even exist." Throughout the piece the weight of loss bears down on the family, almost suffocating in its sorrow—until he gently guides them toward release, showing them how to breathe again and step forward into the light of healing.
Rest In Peace: Robert Bruce Majewski.
I May Need A Chaperone
Choreographed by Annelise Baker
I remain fascinated by the power of the collective. In this piece we see a group of women potentially involved in a cult or specific team - they are all the exact same in their movement. They are poised, stiff, focused, and move completely in sync with one another. When we experience the first notion that someone in the group could waver, we quite literally see the lights flicker and strobe and we realize that everyone in the collective has free will. Then the dance becomes an exploratorium of new freer movement, and individualized discoveries. We end in quite a different spot from where we started. The group has shed their sunglasses and are embodying joy and individuality. One character remains unconvinced of this sudden shift and we see her trying to clinge to the past. However, her efforts are futile. I hope that this piece is invigorating and makes people wonder about the roles they play in their communities.
Foundations
Choreographed by John Barrella
Step into the raw energy of the 90s with this explosive hip hop and breakdance performance—a tribute to the golden era of street culture, boomboxes, and baggy jeans. Fueled by old-school beats and bold attitude, the choreography blends sharp pops, fluid footwork, and gravity-defying spins, capturing the rebellious spirit and electric rhythm that defined a generation.
Jigs & Reels
Choreographed by Julie Gale
In this enchanting ballet, classical grace meets Highland spirit as three proud Scottish clans unite through dance. As the clans weave their stories in harmony, tradition and technique intertwine—celebrating unity, heritage, and the timeless power of movement.
ACT TWO
Unhurried Spaciousness
Choreographed by Holly Jahn
'Unhurried Spaciousness' explores what happens when we find moments to slow down in our busy lives. Inspired by Marie Kondo's book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, this piece reveals how clearing clutter creates time and space for peace and relaxation. The dancers move between fast, hectic patterns and calm, peaceful moments, embodying how our environments influence whether we feel rushed or at ease. As they flow between frantic activity and deliberate stillness, you'll witness—and perhaps experience—how a single deep breath can create a profound sense of spaciousness. This piece holds special significance as my first choreographic work for Reflections since returning to Metuchen Dance Centre after living abroad for over a decade. The fresh environment and new group of dancers have added rich layers to the work, deepening its exploration of how the spaces and people in our lives shape our relationship with time.
At Your Door
Choreographed by Kerri McNeill
This piece is celebration of friendships/relationships enduring strength, a reminder that even when life pulls us in different directions, the bond remains unshaken. The choreography captures how being together allows us to shed the chaos of the world and return to our truest selves. Each step tells the story of laughter, struggle, distance, and reunion-proving that no matter where life takes us, as long as we have each other, we'll always be okay.
From Mind
Choreographed by Katie Camero
This piece was crafted especially for the dancer—long known as the more reserved ballerina—now yearning to unveil her fiercer, untamed self. A single pointe shoe becomes the symbol of this transformation, poised between elegance and rebellion.
Danza Con Fuego
Choreographed by Kelly Beck
Get ready to turn up the heat! This sizzling dance was inspired by a fiery medley of songs and the endless ways movement can ripple like flames. It’s all about sass, rhythm, and fierce musicality. These dancers are bringing the blaze—blending salsa, samba, and spicing things up into one explosive fusion. So get ready to shake your hips, feel the spice, and remember to always dance with fuego!
Sign of the Times
Choreographed by Emma Contursi
Sign of the Times tells the story of a dying mother saying goodbye to her newborn. She bears her heart through the lyrics, and, though afraid, uses her final words to comfort the child. The dancer's seek to emulate her courage. Matching the song's relentless musicality and emotional crescendos, they encourage us to be equally fierce in love and faith.
Multiversal Defense Corps
Choreographed by Barbie Brady
In this high-energy dance performance, superheroes unite with the timeline authority in an epic mission to restore balance across the multiverse. As timelines spiral out of control, powerful choreography blends strength, speed, and precision to tell a story of cosmic chaos and heroic order. With each pulse-pounding move, the team battles rifts in reality—proving that when forces join together, even the wildest timelines can be tamed.
ACT THREE
Exes
Choreographed by Nicole Fox Davis
A bold, tongue-in-cheek anthem that explores the emotional messiness, confidence, and contradictions of modern relationships—especially from a young woman’s perspective of reclaiming her narrative.
Grow with the Flow
Choreographed by Melanie Alyse
This piece journeys through the highs and lows of life, tracing every twist, turn, and moment in between. With each step, we move forward—riding the rhythm of change, growing with the flow, and dancing through it all.
Tribute to Sir Elton
Choreographed by Madison Meredith
Join us as we honor the timeless music and legacy of Elton John! This piece is a tap dance tribute, bringing his iconic hits to life through rhythm and movement. Each song in this medley captures a unique energy, offering a dynamic journey through his musical brilliance. Overall, it’s a vibrant celebration, full of joy, spirit, and the unforgettable sound of one of music’s greatest legends.
Once Upon A Time
Choreographed by Julia Ramirez
Drawing from the dancers’ own imaginations and dreams, this piece evolved into a mosaic of fantasy, creativity, and joy.
You & Me
Choreographed by Sara Martino
Let's focus on the positive community we build through dance and the connection it brings. Meant to bring feelings of peace and tranquility, "You and Me" can inspire all of us to reach out and be a friend to those around us.
Eight to the Bar
Choreographed by Alessandra Valea
Inspired by Fosse's award winning choreography in the infamous Broadway flop; Big Deal! Fusing the playful syncopation of boogie woogie with the timeless flair of classic theatrical jazz, this dance invites you to embrace both style and energy. Let's celebrate the timeless elegance and FUN of jazz in all its glory!