The following 101 students have been nominated for the 2024 Artist of the Year in dance from teachers and private instructors at Orange County high schools and arts organizations.
See more nominees
Film and TV
Instrumental music
Vocal music
Theater
Fine arts
Media arts
This year, when students filled out their portion of the nomination application, they were asked to list their strongest specialty in this discipline. In past years, teachers chose this for them.
The nominees are listed below with an endorsement from their nominating teacher, the identification of their strongest specialty and a link to their work. Those students missing their specialty and link did not complete their application; however, they are still considered nominees because they are being honored by their teacher and school
Alana Alvarado
“Alana Alvarado is a stunning dancer with amazing attention to detail. Her classical training shines through her technical abilities, beautiful lines, and intentional stage presence. She is always determined to perfect her craft and does not shy away from a challenge. Although classically trained, she remains a versatile dancer that is willing to step outside of her comfort zone to reach her fullest potential.” — Arielle Gates, Troy High School
Melissa Alvarado
Contemporary
“Melissa Alvarado is the ideal dance student. While starting her dance journey via a screen on zoom, Melissa is now choreographing for our class. Her solos for the dance show and talent show are superb! She welcomes all feedback, she is innovative, she takes risks, and she trains hard.” — Chrissie Leong, Garden Grove High School
Sofia Aniceto
Ballet: Contemporary
“Sofia Aniceto has been an extremely dedicated, multifaceted performer in our school for the past 4 years. Even before entering our school she had been training hard in her craft and performing in many Orange and Los Angeles county theater and dance troupes. Because of her intense drive and her amazing innate talent, Sofia has risen as one of our top dancers.” — Tim Nelson, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
Sofia Marcela Arguello
Hip-hop
Sofia Marcela Arguello of Rowland Heights, a junior studying at Sunny Hills High School, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Andrea Arguello)
“Sofia is an incredibly gifted dancers, particularly in her strengths as a hip hop dancer. She dedicates endless hours to perfecting her craft and has spread her extensive knowledge of hip hop and choreography to dancers in my program. She has also lead our hip hop club on campus (Deviation) and taken it to new heights.” — Leiana Volen, Sunny Hills High School
Maria Jose Arizmendi Alday
Contemporary: Jazz
“Maria Jose, or MJ, bursts with creativity. Once she started dancing, there hasn’t been any stopping her! Her movement quality is original, interesting, and she challenges her peers. MJ has choreographed groups and solos — each one being intricate with flair. Her style is influenced by pop culture, but she is able to pick up Western dance techniques with ease. MJ is a true artist with passion, love, and constant inspiration.” — Chrissie Leong, Garden Grove High School
Cristopher Arredondo
Contemporary: Fusion
“Cristopher is a born artist – he is eager to learn, self-motivated, collaborative and a passionate and dedicated choreographer and performer. When he is on stage, it is hard to take your eye off of him because his love for dance shines through in everything he does. There are few times you won’t see him dancing around school!” — Leiana Volen, Sunny Hills High School
Taven Blanke
Contemporary: Broadway
“From his young years to now, Taven has shown great promise and dedication to the musical theater art form. He has trained in vocal music, acting, and many styles of dance to round himself out as a triple threat theatrical performer. …Very rarely do you witness a student perform for the first time and think, ‘He will definitely be on Broadway!,’ but with Taven, that is exactly what everyone thought; the potential was there and now it is blooming. It is clear that this dedicated triple threat will have a lengthy career.” — Tim Nelson, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
Tatum Bolton
Ballet: Contemporary
“Tatum Bolton is a technically trained dancer who specializes in ballet and contemporary styles. Her talent and humble attitude make her a valuable addition to any team. She is not only kind and adaptable but also shows an eagerness to collaborate and work with others. Throughout her time in my program, I have noticed significant growth in her style and maturity.” — Kristine Calder, San Juan Hills High School
Zoe Borowski
“As an artist, Zoe is just a beautiful dancer to watch. She has a strong technical foundation, she pushes hard to excel at any tricks thrown her way, she moves effortlessly through her movement, and you can just feel her emotion as she performs. It truly has been an absolutely joy to watch the growth that has occurred for Zoe as a dancer and performer since her first day on the team and I know that there is so much more that lies ahead for her!” — Lissy Burboa, Rosary Academy
Sofia Bianca Fabruada Borromeo
Contemporary: Lyrical/jazz
Sofia Bianca Fabruada Borromeo of Orange, a junior studying at Troy High School, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Carmela Borromeo)
“Sofia is a dancer that is well rounded, mature, and full of passion. She respects her craft and strives to challenge herself daily. Her versatility, artistry, and technical abilities are what makes her standout whether she is rehearsing or performing. Sofia brings it all to the table from her focus in training to her authentic stage performances.” — Arielle Gates, Troy High School
Paloma Borsari
“Paloma absolutely loves to dance, and you can see it from the minute she walks into the studio or arrives at competition. She works tirelessly to listen to music, working on the musicality of her dancing, making sure she can hear each and every note, watching film to correct any part of the dance and then will spend time going over a certain skill over and over until she can get it. She is constantly striving to just be better.” — Lissy Burboa, Rosary Academy
Ruby Brown-Bilyeu
Ballet: Classical
“Ruby is a born performer and musician and dedicates hours of her days practicing and rehearsing to perfect her artforms. Ruby is a lovely classical dancer in addition to a member of the Academy for the Performing Arts Orchestra and Drumline and when Ruby takes the stage, she is mesmerizing to watch.”— Brande Dunn, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
Lucianna Burrett
“Her dedication to dance is to be respected and her efforts are endless. She is a pleasure to train and she is always eager to learn and improve where needed. Lucy’s positive attitude is apparent each and every day that she attends class. She comes ready to work and she is well respected by her teachers, coaches and classmates. …She is an outstanding performer, artist and individual.” — Brande Dunn, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
Lyrah Cabrera
“Dance is her passion and that is evident every single time she takes the stage. She is determined, driven and passionate about the pieces that she creates. She is also an experienced choreographer and a respected teacher among her peers. I know that dance will have an important role in her life and future career and I know she will continue to reach for her goals in the next chapter of her life.” — Lindsey Lee, Dana Hills High School
Addison E. Cannon
Contemporary: Jazz
Addison E. Cannon of Fullerton, a senior studying at Sunny Hills High School, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Adrian Cannon)
“She is the most eager student I know — desires to learn, good at receiving feedback, thinks outside the box and is not afraid to push herself artistically. She stays true to who she is and is well respected on our campus by both staff and students. Addison deserved this recognition and is going to do amazing things as an artist and overall creative person in this world!” — Leiana Volen, Sunny Hills High School
Clara Cestone
“She is fearless and pushes herself artistically. Her story telling and emotion demonstrated when she moves is incredible. She is one-of-a-kind. Her movement quality stands out and she shines on the floor. In addition, she is respectful and gives her full effort all the time. She is incredible to work with and teach!” — Danielle Darwazeh, Santa Margarita Catholic High School
Marisa Chacon
Contemporary
“Marisa has taken every opportunity to be involved in her high school and does it all with a strong sense of responsibility and maturity. She is an artistic choreographer and a dynamic performer. She is a strong leader who thrives on bringing out the best in everyone. I think Marisa has a unique perspective on the artistic process and really understands how hard work is so important in the artistic field.” — Judy Scialpi, Northwood High School
Kailey Chang
World: Traditional Korean Dance
Kailey Chang of Tustin, a junior studying with Korean American Youth Performing Arts, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Kailey Chang)
“Kailey shows her passion for dance by seeking out opportunities to share Korean dance with her school peers through school wide performances and starting her own club to teach others, including non-Korean students. In the past two years she has competed in three competitions and received an award at each one. … Kailey’s attitude both in performance and practice is helpful and uplifting and her genuine interest in dance shows through her eagerness to teach others and share her culture.” — Jaeeun Lee, Korean American Youth Performing Arts
Gillian Chappell
Contemporary
“Gillian has grown greatly over the years I have had her as a student. She has put in the work with her training, and has been relentless at reaching her goals. Her passion for dance is exuded when she performs and I believe she has the potential to keep going far in her dance career.” — Andrea Oberlander, Fullerton Union High School
Constantin Chekardzhikov
“Constantin is someone who makes the job of his teachers so much easier and more meaningful, because he is excited to learn, create, and explore. Constantin is a kind and giving person to everyone he interacts with, and his classmates and partners trust and rely on him because of his consistently warm spirit. Because of his communication skills, and the rapport he has with his classmates, I believe that Constantin has immense leadership potential.” — Robert Porch, Orange County School of the Arts
Edward Chen
Hip-hop: Liquid Dance
“Eddie is a STELLAR student, mentor, teacher, performer and artist. His performance quality exceeds most students I’ve seen. His choreography and musicality make his performances so very engaging. His storytelling through dance has a unique quality that is his alone. A true artist and wonderful human who gives back to his community.” — Charna Lopez, Orange County School of the Arts
Katelyn Chen
Contemporary
Katelyn Chen of Los Alamitos, a junior studying at Los Alamitos High School, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Kuo-Chang Chen)
“Pure joy! Watching Katelyn perform is an absolute breathtaking experience. She exudes so much joy and happiness when she sings and dances. There is a special spark she ignites. … Katelyn will etch an unforgettable memory of joy and passion through dance.” — David Moellenkamp, Los Alamitos High School
Aimee Cho
Ballet: Contemporary
Aimee Cho of Irvine, a senior studying at Crean Lutheran High School, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of LK Studio, Inc.)
“She is a chameleon — from jazz and contemporary to ballet and modern, Aimee can perform various dance styles with power and grace. She is an accomplished ballet dancer, earning many awards and honors from YAGP and YoungArts. But what sets Aimee apart is her artistry and humility. When Aimee dances on stage, she captivates audiences with her beautiful technique and her passion for dance. Off stage, Aimee is kind, hard-working, and humble; always striving to do her best.” — Megan Morphis, Crean Lutheran High School
Gabriel Sungjin Cho
Ballroom: Latin
“Gabriel Cho is a great dancer in the nine different styles of ballroom and Latin dance, and he uses this ability to serve on charitable outreach teams and lead through excellent communication. Gabriel’s work ethic and enthusiasm for dance is infectious and, when other students see this unique quality for someone this age, it inspires them to take on these qualities of a much older and more mature practitioner of this art form.” — Robert Porch, Orange County School of the Arts
Alison Conlay
Contemporary: Modern
“Alison is an intelligent, responsible, and driven individual with an exceptional talent for dance and performance. … Alison’s ability to convey emotion through movement is truly captivating, showcasing a depth of expression that is both nuanced and powerful. In addition to their impressive dance abilities, Alison possesses a unique and engaging choreographic style. Their creative voice is distinctive, and they have a keen ability to create compelling and thought-provoking dance pieces.” — Marie Hoffman, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
Vanessa Cook
“Vanessa’s passion for dance is evident in every intention and moment she has in the dance room. Vanessa has continued to push through new styles of dance and movement vocabulary from the various choreographers she has worked with during her time at Brea. Vanessa is a dancer by every inch of the definition. She continues to be inspired by other dancers and movement opportunities that she is given. I appreciate her dedication and love for dance.” — Missy Burns, Brea Olinda High School
Breeana Victoria Cortez
Hip-hop
Breeana Victoria Cortez of Orange, a senior studying at Mater Dei High School, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Ava Valadez)
“She exudes a passion for dance through the genre of hip-hop and this love is evident every time she performs. Her level of skills demonstrates confidence, dynamic movement quality, and a true understanding of the groove and swag of hip-hop. In addition, Breeana is an officer for the Hip Hop Team and consistently demonstrates admirable leadership qualities. She excels at cleaning choreography, taking initiative, anticipating needs, and organization.” — Rochelle Mapes, Mater Dei High School
Kameron Couch
“She has the focus of a dancer well beyond her years, with a striking attention to detail and eye-widening passion that spills out with every movement she makes. Kameron spends her studio time experimenting with every correction she received that day, exploring her curiosity with thoughtful and engaging questions, and displays the highest level of perseverance in achieving each new movement that challenges her.” — Paige Borowski, Orange County School of the Arts
Katie Couch
Contemporary
Katie Couch of Irvine, a junior studying at the Orange County School of the Arts, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Katie Goughan)
“Katie also has the rare gift of being able to apply and demonstrate any correction she is given, almost immediately, never moving forward until she has a rich understanding of the material. I am in consistent awe as she seems to grasp the root of her mistakes so calmly and correct them with the utmost professionalism. I can confidently say that she is one of the most driven and improving young dancers I have ever had the pleasure of working with.” — Paige Borowski, Orange County School of the Arts
Mackenzie Couch
Contemporary: Jazz
“She maturely applies notes that are metaphoric and anatomical. She is constantly growing as an artist. She constantly impresses me with nuanced textures of the movement and her creative application of story and expression into the dance. Kenzie is not only a very technical dancer, but a caring person.” — Nicole Berger, Orange County School of the Arts
Grace DeGroot
Contemporary: Broadway
“Grace DeGroot is a talented dance student who is passionate about her art form. As a dancer, she specializes in the musical theater genre and is known for being a great performer. She participates in the musical productions. She is collaborative, loves doing group work, and is always nice and friendly to her peers. Her commitment to her craft is unwavering, and she is driven to succeed and get things done.” — Kristine Calder, San Juan Hills High School
Paloma Dowdle
Hip-hop
“The growth that I have seen in Paloma since her freshman year has been astounding. I saw a student who liked dance evolve into someone who couldn’t live without dance. She has pushed herself to grow in styles she thrives in, but also has thrown herself into other styles to continue that growth. She is a great example of a dancer following their passion!” — Andrea Oberlander, Fullerton Union High School
Angelina Esqueda
“Angelina Esqueda is an outstanding dancer, performer, choreographer, teacher, and leader. She is the all-around perfect package. She has been one of the most prolific choreographers I have had in my 35 years of teaching. She has the ingenuity and creativity to produce incredible pieces that are always the audience’s favorite.” — Teri Ross, La Habra High School
Rachel Evatt
“Rachel possesses a love for dance that exudes energy, fun and positivity. She has been a competitive dancer most of her life and in high school gravitated towards the competitive song program which is part of spiritleaders on campus. She is a natural leader of her peers so that made the most sense, however she auditioned for our OLu Dance program seeking opportunities to learn more, perform, and have the opportunity to choreograph. … I have been able to teach her and watch her learn how to select music, edit music, costume design, and now we’re into lighting design.” — Jennifer Blomquist, Orange Lutheran High School
Jordan Fares
Contemporary
Jordan Fares of Fullerton, a senior studying at Fullerton Union High School, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Scott Edwards-Silva)
“Jojo has been a great storyteller with her choreography and performance quality since I have had her as a freshman, and she has only grown over the years. Whatever she is dancing about or dancing for, is presented in her work. As a mover, she keeps you captivated. As a choreographer, she makes you think.” — Andrea Oberlander, Fullerton Union High School
Laney Fletcher
“Her leadership instincts shine through in the way she nurtures her teammates, communicates with the coaches, and leads by example. Though Song is a huge time commitment, Laney’s love of dance extends beyond the pom and jazz styles of this team and she continues to train and perform with her dance studio in a variety of dance styles. She is a lovely and versatile dancer.” — Rochelle Mapes, Mater Dei High School
Maddy Freligh
Contemporary
“Madeline ‘Maddy’ Freligh is a brilliant dancer and a captivating performer who’s drive, ambition, and self-directed approach to her craft are truly commendable. Her attention to detail, combined with a high level of intelligence, sets her apart as a dancer and artist. She approaches each performance with a focus that is both disciplined and passionate. In the face of physical health challenges, Maddy has displayed remarkable grit and determination. Her ability to overcome obstacles while maintaining a high standard of excellence speaks volumes about her character and commitment to her art.” – Marie Hoffman, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
Jasmine Gama
Ballet: Classical
“She has proven her talent in various dance genres, including classical, contemporary, and character. Jasmine is very musical and artistic, an essential aspect of ballet art. Furthermore, she is known for her strong work ethic and consistent preparedness for classes, making her a reliable dance company member.” — Alina Krasovskaya, Dmitri Kulev Classical Ballet Academy
Violet Gardea
“Violet is an incredibly passionate dancer and performer. Her ability to emote on the stage is unmatched. She can take an audience on a journey with only her movement and facials. Her lifelong love of dance comes through with every single movement she does. She has beautiful technique and has mastered a variety of dance styles. She has choreographed some of our most intricate and appreciated dances over the past four years. She is a very kind and patient teacher. The dancers in our program love working with her because she is always organized and prepared and makes sure every detail of her dance is of high standards. She has been one of the best role models in our dance program always encouraging the next generation of dancers.” — Teri Ross, La Habra High School
Charlie George
“Charlie is an amazing performer and artist as a dancer. Her style, movement quality and turning ability are inspiring and beautiful to watch. In addition, she is an incredible leader and motivator in and out of the classroom.” — Danielle Darwazeh, Santa Margarita Catholic High School
Madeline Gerber
Contemporary: Jazz
“In class and rehearsal, she explores her artistry as a dancer and she is in our composition class finding her voice as a choreographer. She brings enthusiasm to the group as they prepare for performance and ensures dancers attend to every detail of the performance. She helps to create a cohesive expression designed by herself, or other choreographers, while supporting each individual’s efforts.” — Claire Zabaneh, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
Chandler Green
Contemporary
“Chandler is a rare and outstanding dance artist and leader due to her exceptional combination of talent, dedication, and leadership qualities. Her artistic expression in dance are unparalleled and she continues to have a hunger to grow and better herself always. She showcases a level of skill and innate artistry that is not commonly seen among peers, and is one of the most humble, hardest working and selfless dancers I have ever had.” — Jamie Tanzer, Newport Harbor High School
Kalea Liao Guthrie
Contemporary: Modern
“She’s always been a standout performer. She’s a beautiful, committed artist who works hard to achieve the highest caliber performance in both class and show. She has extraordinary technique and has the ability to portray choreography in such a way that the emotion is palpable to all audience members through her reach, face, energy, flexibility, attack and general presence.” — Hanne Schmidt, Woodbridge High School
Isabella Guzmán
World: Ballet Folklórico
“Isabella has found her passion and it is 100% in folklórico dance. She is committed to being her best self in the classroom and on stage. She loves learning new material, but loves even more the challenge of learning and performing it to the best of her ability. Isabella is a force to be reckoned with, but at the same time encourages her peers to do the same.” — Marlene Peña-Marin, Orange County School of the Arts
Ashley Hong
Contemporary
Ashley Hong of Fullerton, a senior studying at Sunny Hills High School, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Cory Jones)
“Ashley is an outstanding dancer, choreographer, leader and influential person on our campus. She stands out for all the right reasons – doing extra, setting the bar, being a positive role model – on top of being an incredible dancer! Ashley leads our dance program with grace and dignity and is the true description of what it takes to be an Artist of the Year!” — Leiana Volen, Sunny Hills High School
Kate Hoskin“Kate Hoskin is a hardworking and committed dancer who works well independently. She is proactive and always seeks opportunities to better herself. Not afraid to ask questions, she strives to improve and works well with other students. Her fun and outgoing personality is a great addition to any team.” — Kristine Calder, San Juan Hills High School
Katelyn Hu
World: Chinese Classical Dance
“Katelyn definitely has something to say as a dancer. Her joy while dancing is palatable, especially when sharing her native Classical Chinese dance. She is well-rounded as a dancer, morphing from ballet to modern easily, but where she lives contently, is deeply rooted in Chinese culture and traditions. … Katelyn is tenacious when it comes to following through with and idea, especially when it comes to sharing something that speaks so eloquently to the pride, she feels dancing her traditional artform.” — Steven B Hyde, Orange County School of the Arts
Taylor Irving
“Taylor is an outstanding dancer, performer, and leader. …She has a very vibrant and outgoing personality. She knows how to make things fun while being very productive. She is always kind and has the ability to bring out the very best in people. This is so important when leading the wide variety of dance levels that she does. …As a dancer, she has beautiful technique and is able to choreograph on the spot. Her beauty radiates from both within and on the stage. She has created many wonderful pieces for our past shows and the dancers always enjoy working with her.” — Teri Ross, La Habra High School
Ella Jia
World: Chinese Fan Dance
Ella Jia of Dana Point, a senior studying at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Sally Chow)
“Ella is an all around amazing dancer, choreographer, and business woman. As a dancer, Ella is passionate, driven, and committed to the craft of dance. She is able to learn and choreograph a variety of dance styles including contemporary, jazz, modern, ballet, and Chinese traditional fan dancing. Her technical ability is strong, grounded, and exquisite.” — Kirsten Harvey, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School
Yanelly Juarez
Hip-hop and Latin jazz
“Yanelly loves to dance and choreograph. She choreographs all styles of dance: jazz, hip-hop, contemporary and reggaeton. She has overcome struggling academically in the past to excelling this year in all her classes. Her passion for dance has led her to being one of our lead choreographers, dance core member in our spring musical and continues to dance outside of school on a competition team.” — Cyndi Hermann, Santa Ana High School
Kristin Kim
“Kristin Kim has displayed poise, growth, and a deep understanding of movement qualities and body awareness. From dancing on zoom to in person I am so proud to help support Kristin in her growth as a dancer and a leader. Kristin’s passion for dance and movement has translated to the depth of knowledge in physical therapy and interest in helping others that she has.” — Missy Burns, Brea Olinda High School
Karina Konchigeri
“Karina Konchigeri is a dancer that has a strong work ethic, unique sense of style, and a determined mindset. Karina has a natural stage presence to her that comes through whether performing in front of a crowd or rehearsing alone. She displays her own unique style and artistic abilities that are always engaging to watch and enjoy.” — Arielle Gates, Troy High School
Swara Kulkarni
World: Bharatanatyam
“Swara Kulkarni, a student of dance from a very young age, has studied with me for over 8 years. She is naturaly talented, graceful, intuitive and soulful. She is keen and willing to challenge herself and works hard both as a team member and as a soloist. As her name Swara suggests she ‘shines’ and so does her dance!” – Ramya Harishankar, Arpana Dance Company
Julie Kurimoto
Ballet: Classical
“Julie Kurimoto … is a captivating performer, demonstrating breathtaking artistry and exceptional technique that never fails to delight audiences. In performances, Julie lights up the stage with a presence that is both magnetic and joyful. Her talent spans across various dance genres, showcasing versatility and a commitment to excellence in each form. As an eager student, Julie approaches her studies with enthusiasm and dedication. She is respectful, responsible, and quick-witted, demonstrating a keen ability to grasp complex choreography and concepts swiftly.” — Marie Hoffman, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
McKayla Lamb
Contemporary
“She’s an extremely hard worker and always strives to be the best dancer she can be. She has been dancing for many years and she continues to grow and want to learn more. I believe she is an artist of the year for many reasons. She works hard on her choreography skills. She studies professional dances to learn new skills, moves, or ideas. She is extremely creative. You can tell her heart is full of joy when she is in the dance studio.” — Samantha Rossi, JSerra Catholic High School
Morgan Landrigan
“Morgan Landrigan is talented, driven, and collaborative. She always strives to be nice and works well with others to achieve the best results. Her passion for dance comes out on stage. She’s a great performer and plans to continue pursuing dance in college.” — Kristine Calder, San Juan Hills High School
Jessie Levasheff
Contemporary
“Jessie is a dancer unlike any I have ever seen. Her years of training and practice have resulted in an unbelievable ‘capture your heart’ experience for audiences. Her face and body are beyond any level of skill I have ever seen in my 20 years of teaching. Her skill as a choreographer is also truly unique. She instills confidence in students who’ve never danced — and excitement and inspiration in the hearts of experienced dancers.” — Angela Ward, Pacifica Christian High School
Summer Lewis
Contemporary: Broadway
“Summer Lewis is an outstanding dancer and captain. She is mesmerizing to watch and her passion is apparent every time she dances. It’s clear that she was born for the stage! Her collaborative and kind nature make her an excellent team player, and her outgoing and friendly personality shine both on and off the dance floor.” — Kristine Calder, San Juan Hills High School
Michael Lilly
Contemporary: Modern
Michael Lilly of Fullerton, a senior studying at Buena Park High School, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Michael Lilly)
“As a key student in all art programs, including art, theater, and dance, Michael has showcased his versatile talents and dedication. His remarkable involvement in every musical since his freshman year, where he often played main roles, highlights his theatrical prowess and commitment. … Michael’s growth as an artist is noteworthy. His passion for dance and his aspiration to pursue it beyond high school speak volumes about his dedication and potential.” — Amanda Klaus, Buena Park High School
Violet Lopiccola
Contemporary
“Violet is on a different level than her peers when it comes to maturity, depth of nuance, and movement wisdom. Violet is truly gifted in modern dance; one of those rare young artists who is wise for their age. Violet has a unique voice and style, which permeates her creations as a choreographer, another passion of Violet’s where we get to see her depth of maturity and nuance shine.” — Steven Hyde, Orange County School of the Arts
Michelle Lu
Ballet: Classical
“Michelle moves with an ease and lightness that is rare among dancers of her age. Her technique and quality of movement is a breath of fresh air, and she gives even the most challenging technical elements life and airiness. She has been able to apply her training to many different styles of dance in our program, but she shines in ballet and contemporary styles where her lines, extension, and lift are on full display.” — Samantha Gardner, Portola High School
Ella Mack
“Ella is a passionate, driven, and committed dancer. She is able to learn and choreograph a variety of dance styles including contemporary, jazz, and ballet. Her technical ability is strong, grounded, and poised. She is a strong leader and works well with the Tartan Dance Company in the areas of choreography and rehearsal direction.” — Kirsten Harvey, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School
Avril Martinez
World: Ballet Folklórico
“Something changed over the course of this last year that ignited a fire in Avril. She has flourished into a confident artist that performs with the full intention necessary for traditional Mexican folk dance, additionally adding the character and personality for the piece. She is not just dancing, but performing! Watching her coming into her own has been a joy.” — Marlene Peña-Marin, Orange County School of the Arts
Megan Martinez
Contemporary: Jazz
“As a dancer and a performer, Megan just exudes a love of dance! She has a deep love for musical theater and once that music turns on, she truly is the ultimate performer! Much like her academics, Megan is an extremely determined young woman and will work tirelessly to achieve her goals, whether that is learning a new skill or perfecting her technique, she just wants to be the very best she can be.” — Lissy Burboa, Rosary Academy
Tessa Maryott
Contemporary
“Tessa is a talented, focused, and poised young dancer. She is able to not only perform but also choreograph a variety of genres including contemporary, jazz, musical theater, and is open to learning new styles presented to her. Her technique is strong, including control of movement, flexibility, strength, musicality, and her performance qualities draw the audience into her dance story. Her choreography is unique because she challenges the expected by utilizing powerful movements and surprising musical intricacies.” — Kirsten Harvey, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School
Hannah McCabe
Contemporary: jazz
“Hannah McCabe is a talented artist with a remarkable ability to translate her visionary concepts into stage pieces. As a creative choreographer, her leadership skills are exemplary, demonstrating a unique ability to collaborate with diverse groups effectively. Her adaptability allows her to tailor her work to her dancers, enhancing their performance and showcasing them at their finest. … She is one of the kindest and giving students I’ve had … open to new perspectives, she encourages ideas from others creating a collaborative environment in class.” — Kristine Calder, San Juan Hills High School
Allison McIver
“Allison has grown tremendously in her movement qualities and depth of knowledge in dance since her freshman year. As an artist of the year, she would represent the growth a high school program can provide for any studio or non-studio dancer. Allison has demonstrated a high level of performance and versatility in dance.” — Missy Burns, Brea Olinda High School
Brianna Meck
“She is a part of our choreography class and is finding her voice as a choreographer. She is reserved and soft spoken, but has an unparalleled presence when she dances. In our current project, she can evoke emotion with one slow and controlled fan rond de jamb extension. She is masterful with both technique and artistry.” — Claire Zabaneh, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
Bailey Michaelian Marks
“Bailey is a beautiful dancer and artist. She makes great choreographic choices and has an amazing artistic sense. She has wonderful movement quality and technique. She is a joy to work with and teach! …She is very involved on campus and volunteers any opportunity she gets. Bailey is a standout student!” — Danielle Darwazeh, Santa Margarita Catholic High School
Daniella Morales
Contemporary
Daniella Morales of Downey, a senior studying at the Orange County School of the Arts, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Vinha Wickham)
“Daniella is currently co-choreographing, and she definitely has a voice as a choreographer and enjoys manipulating her expressiveness through movement. There is an intensity and directness in her presentation; a confidence she doesn’t shy away from with other performers or audience members. Daniella wants to explore merging the margins between her art form and challenges within our society. Daniella sees artists as influencers, impacting and inspiring observers; using our voice to communicate personal experiences, social and political ideas, all through the realm of an art form.” — Steven Hyde, Orange County School of the Arts
Amelia Mui
Contemporary
“Amelia is an extraordinary student. She is a great candidate for this opportunity because not only is she talented, but she is generous with her time and is constantly striving to be a better artist. She is self-motivated and trains consistently at home. Her kindness and inclusivity makes her a wonderful collaborator.” — Kristine Calder, San Juan Hills High School
Kate Niho
Contemporary
Kate Niho of Irvine, a senior studying at Portola High School, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Kate Niho)
“Kate is one of the most talented dancers I have ever come across in my career. She delicately balances breath and weightlessness with groundedness and power in her movement. As a dancers, she is dynamic, athletic, and expansive, and eyes are drawn to her when she performs. As a student, she is a leader and a motivator among her peers, and her love for dance has many enormous contributions to our visual and performing arts department as a whole.” — Samantha Gardner, Portola High School
Ella Njeci
“Ella Njeci is one of the most elegant dancers I have seen in my 35 years of teaching. Her ability to create beautiful lines and tell a story with just her moves and emotions is a gift. Her technique is flawless and she can command the attention of the audience even with the simplest of choreography. Her ability to think outside of the box as a choreographer is unmatched with her creating unique dance numbers.” — Teri Ross, La Habra High School
Ava Olsen
Contemporary
Ava Olsen of Irvine, a senior studying at Northwood High School, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Terri Olsen)
“Ava Olsen is an artist who has endured injuries and time away from performing and still managed to have a positive outlook. She is a strong performer who shines on stage and gives her heart and soul. I really think her injuries have taught her perseverance. Her technique is her strength and her passion is her artistry.” — Judy Scialpi, Northwood High School
Jessie Peng
Hip-hop: Funk
Jessie Peng of Irvine, a senior studying at Northwood High School, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Ling Luo)
“Jessie’s choreography is unique; she does an outstanding job of using the entire stage space; she brings out the best in her dancers and her style is truly her own. She has a creative outlook on everything, always positive and an absolute pleasure to have in class. Jessie is the type of student who will keep creating, it is in her for life.” — Judy Scialpi, Northwood High School
Ella Pintar
Contemporary
“Ella is a caring, passionate, and dynamic dancer. She is not only able to learn choreography quickly, but she also can create movement that is thoughtful and inspiring to her peers. She has a dynamic range within her choreography as well as a dancer that includes fluidity, power, and textured vocabulary. She is grounded while also lifted, and her ability to move through space is inspiring.” — Kirsten Harvey, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School
Kayla Reed
Ballet: Classical
Kayla Reed of Rancho Santa Margarita, a senior studying at Crean Lutheran High School, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (© 2024 Steve Wylie. All Rights Reserved)
“Kayla Reed is an Artist of the Year because of her poise and grace. She is hard-working, dedicated, kind, and humble. Kayla has a passion for ballet that has been developed over many years of consistent training. Although she is quiet and reserved, not wanting to draw attention to herself, when Kayla dances, she lights up the stage and you can see how much love and passion for dance that she has.” — Megan Morphis, Crean Lutheran High School
Sage Allegra Reeves
Contemporary: Lyrical
“Sage is an incredible technician and artist. She shows amazing artistry with her movement quality and dynamics. Her beautiful technique makes her a standout, be it in her remarkable leg extensions or her explosive jumps. She works incredibly hard and shows dedication to her craft through all her various commitments.” — Danielle Darwazeh, Santa Margarita Catholic High School
Ellie Ro
Ballet: Classical
Ellie Ro of Huntington Beach, a senior studying at the Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Steve Shea)
“Ellie gives 200% in all that she does. She is a lovely ballerina in addition to a strong performer in contemporary and jazz alike. …She is a competitive dancer and a member of a repertory company for a local dance company in Huntington Beach. She has performed in many full-length ballets such as ‘Coppelia,’ ‘La Bayadere,’ ‘Cinderella’ and ‘The Nutcracker.’ This year I had the pleasure of watching her perform and she was delightful. Ellie is a likable, polite and talented young lady who deserves to be recognized for all her hard work and efforts.” — Brande Dunn, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
Danica Robertson
Contemporary: Jazz
“Danica Robertson is a highly talented, dedicated, and joyful individual who is not only a remarkable artist but also a great leader and a positive influence. Her passion for dance and her commitment to her craft, combined with her positive attitude and leadership skills, make her a standout performer and a valuable member of the dance program. She is my ‘go-to girl.’” — Kristine Calder, San Juan Hills High School
Brianna Rodriguez
Contemporary: Jazz
“Brianna stands out as a dancer in my program for being an artist who has grown beyond my expectations every year. Her transformation as an artist from where she started to where she is now, is exponential, inspiring and a testament to how much work and heart she has dedicated to her craft. She is an outstanding artist and teammate that is highly dependable. Brianna never lets a challenge stand in her way and has a heart for serving others.” — Jamie Tanzer, Newport Harbor High School
Piper Rovsek
Contemporary
“Piper is an advanced and skilled dancer. In the past year Piper danced in a piece of my contemporary ballet choreography and of Ido Tadmor’s. She was stunning. Her long lines are perfection and her curiosity and exploration of space is unmatched. She makes the audience feel every little texture and emotion with the smallest of movements. … She really makes a wonderful impression and artistic mark wherever she goes.” — Nicole Berger, Orange County School of the Arts
Gianna Salata
“Gianna is remarkable student and dancer. She is always giving her all and pushing herself to grow as an artist. Not only does she compete at her studio, Gianna is in our advanced dance honors class, IB Dance and is on our competitive teams. …Her artistry and technique are both beautiful. She is a joy to work with!” — Danielle Darwazeh, Santa Margarita Catholic High School
Sophie Savarese
Ballet: Contemporary
Sophie Savarese of Mission Viejo, a senior studying at Mater Dei High School, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Jenny Hutzler)
“Sophie takes risks with no ego, unafraid of the learning process in the pursuit of the final goal. This mature approach to trying to new things has not only made her grow quite rapidly but sets a wonderful example to other students of how to work effectively. Sophie is now dynamic, nuanced, and stylized in contemporary and jazz choreography, while still demonstrating superb ballet technique.” — Rochelle Mapes, Mater Dei High School
Summer Siddiqui
“Summer stands out as a nominee for Artist of the Year because of her commitment and talent. Not only does she consistently train to her fullest potentially, but she encourages those around her to do the same. Summer has a power and energy behind her movement that is admirable. She is able to adapt to any style given to her and bring it to life. Summer is, overall, a well rounded and eager dancer that stands out on any floor she is dancing on.” — Arielle Gates, Troy High School
Makayla Silavong
“Makayla is a dancer that any coach or teacher would love to work with. She respects authority, exceeds expectations, and challenges herself with new goals consistently. She leads her peers by example and shows her commitment by showing up for her teammates and prioritizing the work that needs to be put in that day. Her mature sense of artistry and movement is what stands out the most with Makayla. She understands how to use her body to bring the music and story to life.” — Arielle Gates, Troy High School
Dana Smith
Contemporary
Dana Smith of Aliso Viejo, a senior studying at Aliso Niguel High School, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Joanna Smith)
“I am consistently impressed by Dana’s dedication to her team, passion for the performing art form of dance, and exceptional academic performance. During the three years I have been her coach, I have seen her grow into an exceptional young lady who is confident and has shown resilience when faced with difficult challenges. What sets Dana apart from other students is her outstanding work ethic, admirable integrity, humility, genuine kindness, and excellent leadership skills.” — Caitlin Brophy, Aliso Niguel High School
Paige Starr
“Paige Starr brings a power and intensity to her dancing that is eye catching. As a performer, she understands how to tell a story and how to take the audience along for the ride. Paige embodies all qualities of a mature and passionate artist and dancer. She demonstrates an elevated quality of movement and commands your attention any time she takes the floor.” – Arielle Gates, Troy High School
Stephanie Soo Yeon Suh
Ballet: Classical
“When Stephanie dances, she draws the audience in with her elegant and graceful movements and lights up the stage every time she performs. Stephanie is a versatile dancer and loves to share her passion for ballet as well as traditional Korean dance. … I love that she has the opportunity to share her culture with our school and that she can grow in her leadership and artistry.” – Megan Morphis, Crean Lutheran High School
Jocelyn Thomas
“Jocelyn Thomas is a strong, powerful dancer. …Her power comes from the confidence she has with solid technique. She combines turns, leaps and extensions into beautiful phrasing across dance forms. I commend her for branching out and embracing ballet, jazz, modern, and hip hop. Her breadth of dance gives her the artistry needed for any choreographer’s vision.” – Claire Zabaneh, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
Bochin Tong
Rhythmic Gymnastics
“Bochin is a true artist at heart. She is a lovely ballet dancer, jazz and contemporary dancer, an award winning rhythmic gymnast as well as a fine artist. I have had the pleasure of training Bochin in ballet technique the past two years and she has risen to the level of a dancer who has spent most of her life training in classical ballet. She put on pointe shoes for the first time this past year and her growth is astounding.” — Brande Dunn, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
Alexis Tran
Ballet: Classical
“I was quite blessed when Alexis walked in the door one day seeking to improve her ballet technique. She has been with me for approximately 4 years now and due to her hard work and commitment she has improved her technique and artistry tremendously. … She is a dream student!” — Carolyn Lovett, Lovett Dance Center
Kayla Tran
“Kayla has an amazing artistic value in her dancing. She has beautiful technique, carriage and poise. Her strong ballet training is evident in her artistry. I currently have Kayla in my Advanced Dance Honors, IB Dance, and Dance Team. She always works hard and pushes herself to be a stronger dancer and artist.” — Danielle Darwazeh, Santa Margarita Catholic High School
Kaya Tretter
“Kaya Tretter is a creative choreographer with good concepts who is fun to work with. She is collaborative and a unifier, bringing together people in class. Kaya is a fast learner and stays true to herself, bringing originality to her work. She cheers others on and motivates them to do their best.” — Kristine Calder, San Juan Hills High School
Talia Tse
Contemporary: Jazz
Talia Tse of Newport Coast, a senior studying at Sage Hill School, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Carolyn Rife)
“Whether it be her movement quality or dynamic choreographic skills, she fully commits to her performance, which makes her work genuinely authentic. The genesis of Talia’s confidence starts the moment the music starts; this nearly indescribable confidence renders a truly unique art form. She essentially tunes out the world, while simultaneously creating safe space for her movement that also radiates so authentically to her peers.” — Sydney Smith, Sage Hill School
Koko Ueno
Hip-hop
Koko Ueno of Irvine, a junior studying at Crean Lutheran High School, is a dance nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Emily Kim)
“Koko Ueno is a standout dancer who lights up the stage when she performs. She always has a smile on her face and it is evident that she has a love and passion for dance. Koko is a member of both our Hip-hop team and Varsity Cheer team, where she has the opportunity to share her school spirit and love for performing at football and basketball games, pep rallies, and performances. She is a powerful and energetic dancer, commanding the stage with each move that she makes.” — Megan Morphis, Crean Lutheran High School
Savannah Uriostegui
“Savannah has dedicated her life to dance. She excels in many styles as well as being an outstanding and prolific choreographer. She has a fantastic eye for design and can create incredible dances. She has a very calm and kind personality and is very patient when teaching. This personality trait has made her one of our most loved Dance Executives. She is very organized and takes the initiative to make sure things get done when needed. Her ability to wow the audience with her endless turns always makes her a crowd favorite.” — Teri Ross, La Habra High School
Victoria Villegas
Hip-hop and Jazz
“Her grit and determination to her team, herself and her art form are all qualities and examples of what an Artist of the Year should be. She has choreographed for her team and is leading by example. She continues to work hard on her technique taking weekly ballet classes and strength and conditioning classes. This honor would show her that her hard work, determination and grit were all worth it.” — Cyndi Hermann, Santa Ana High School
Jordyn Lynn Wolsleger
Contemporary: Modern
“Jordyn Wolsleger possesses a remarkable blend of resilience, immense inner strength, and a kind, compassionate nature that makes him a true pleasure to have in any environment. Jordyn’s eagerness to learn and inquisitive mindset make him an exceptional student. He is fully committed to developing his unique creative voice and process, demonstrating not only intelligence but also a deep passion for the art of dance. As an outstanding dancer in all genres, Jordyn is impossible to ignore in performances. He brings a depth of emotion and commitment, becoming fully immersed in his art to the point of appearing entranced.” — Marie Hoffman, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
Madison York
Contemporary
“Madison ‘Maddy’ York is an exceptional dancer, possessing incredible physical strength and brilliance as a performer. In every show, one’s eye is consistently drawn to her magnetic presence, demonstrating not only technical prowess but also a captivating artistry. Maddy’s talent is so evident that guest choreographers consistently select her for feature roles, recognizing her ability to elevate any piece. Her fantastic sense of humor and infectious personality make her a joy to work with.” — Marie Hoffman, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
Holly Zhang
“Every day that I have had the pleasure of working with Holly, she has brought a focused, energetic, and growth-mindset to class. As a dancer, she is a vibrant and charismatic mover and eyes are drawn to her when she performs. She connects naturally with her audience in all styles, but her personality shines and her energy expands in hip-hop. Her performance quality elevates the pieces that she is in, and her enthusiasm for dance positively impact those around her.” — Samantha Gardner, Portola High School