Our beginning, intermediate, and advanced dance classes visited the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion on October 24, 2025, to watch the Complexions Contemporary Ballet. Students dressed in formal shirts, skirts, and dresses to mark the occasion, filling the theater with anticipation. They left during the second period and boarded school buses for the trip to Downtown Los Angeles. The ride was energetic, with students eager to see a world-renowned dance company and spend time with classmates who share their passion for dance.
The Complexions program is known for blending classical ballet with contemporary styles. The performance included works such as Retro Suite and For Crying Out Loud. The ballet featured original music, including David Rosenblatt’s Divertimento, and contrasted traditional and modern sounds by incorporating acoustic versions of songs by U2. The company’s mission emphasizes breaking traditional boundaries and embracing diversity in style and body. From their seats in the back middle of the lower level, students had a clear view of the stage and ensemble. The dancers’ lifts, extended lines, and dance numbers drew applause from the audience. “It was really inspiring. The technique of the dancers was impressive and it was a great opportunity to see modern ballet and contemporary choreography that we don’t see at SMHS,” Fiona Chen, 12, said.
The show lasted just under ninety minutes, including a twenty-minute intermission, and ended with cheers as the dancers exited the stage. On the return bus ride, students reflected on the experience and felt motivated after seeing professional dancers perform at such a high level. Organized by the Dance Department, the field trip offered young dancers new role models and a clear example of how dedication and years of practice can lead to success. For many students, the event reinforced the importance of setting goals and pursuing them with commitment.
