Art as Redemption

WESTERN BUREAU:

Under the hauntingly beautiful glow of the Rose Hall Great House, the arts came alive in a stunning celebration of life, healing, and hope.

First Dance Studio’s 11th annual production, tagged ‘We Are the World’, took centre stage last Sunday with a bold message: even in a world plagued by imperfections, sin, and hurt, the arts can save the world.

Over 300 attendees, seated on the west lawn of the Rose Hall Great House, were taken on an emotional journey as dancers and singers brought to life a few of the seven deadly sins. “Through ballet, modern dance, and tap, the performers portrayed the darkness that often grips the world today. From greed to wrath, envy to pride, each sin unfolded on stage, showing the weight of these forces in our daily lives,” said First Dance co-founder Sheri-Lee Smith.

But this wasn’t just a story of despair, it encapsulated redemption in the most beautiful way.

For Smith, who serves as a dance coordinator at the studio, the arts are a powerful tool for socio-cultural transformation. She spoke of students whose lives have been changed through participation in the programme, including one particular student who was written off as having a developmental disorder and academic challenges. After attending a summer programme, that student became a straight-A student and made the honour roll.

“She was absolutely transformed,” Smith said. “The confidence she developed in the classes made a huge difference.”

The performance, directed under the artistic vision of co-founder Jodi-Marie Smith, was also a reflection of that transformation. The show began with heavy, deliberate movements and sombre tones. But as the production progressed, a visible shift occurred. The music swelled, voices rose, and the dancers’ movements became lighter and more liberating.

Despite its success, producing such a large-scale event is not without its challenges. “One of the biggest hurdles we face each year is sponsorship,” the team noted. “Production is not easy nor cheap; it’s quite an undertaking. We’re so grateful for those who come on board as sponsors, but the need is still great.” The company also encouraged support for students who may not be able to afford participation.

Founded in 2013, First Dance Studio has grown into an award-winning institution in Montego Bay. Under the leadership of co-founder Jodi-Marie Smith, the studio has proudly represented Jamaica on the international stage, securing 15 medals at the World Championships of Performing Arts in Hollywood, California, and earning 19 medals and three trophies at the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission local dance competition.

janet.silvera@gleanerjm.com