Newport News Public Schools (NNPS) has announced that dance students from Woodside High School will perform their annual fall ballet, a reimagined version of “Swan Lake” titled “Black Swan/White Swan,” from November 19 to 21.
According to NNPS, the performances by Woodside High School’s Center for the Arts & Communications dance magnet program will include free matinees for over 1,000 NNPS elementary students and evening shows for the public. Tickets for the evening performances are priced at $7 and available online. The program is unique within NNPS as it offers specialized instruction in ballet, modern dance, jazz, choreography, and dance history. Students rehearse both during class and after school hours.
The ballet roles were originally choreographed by former Woodside Director of Dance Hope Hunter and premiered in 2019. This year’s performance serves as a tribute to her contributions. Katie SheehanSmith, NNPS supervisor of visual and performing arts, said that elementary students will receive an introduction and character explanations from the stage to enhance engagement with the production.
Dr. Denise Purvis, director of dance at Woodside, emphasized the community impact of the performance: “The performance shares classical music and the concept of classical ballet with the community and builds awareness of dance education opportunities at Woodside.” Purvis noted that some current performers first experienced this ballet as elementary students in 2019.
NNPS serves approximately 26,000 students across 40 schools, including early childhood centers and various levels of primary education. The district employs around 3,900 teachers, administrators, and support staff. It aims to prepare all students to graduate ready for college, careers, and citizenship through programs such as early learning initiatives and advanced science labs. Governance is provided by a seven-member elected School Board with Dr. Michele Mitchell serving as superintendent.
