at City Hall, has earned the continuing admiration of her former teacher and mentor at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia.

"There has been fantastic growth in her company since I was last here in 1996,'' says Pat Thomas. "Suzette approached me about the need to restructure her school and company.

"With so many students, it is no longer a grass roots organisation -- although it will always have that identity. We believe she has now reached the point of needing an advisory panel made up of Bermudians and Americans, people who can help strengthen her, and dance generally on the Island.'' Admitting she is "amazed'' by the energy and dedication shown by the young teacher in taking her students and teachers to attend summer residencies at the university -- around 15 of them are off as soon as the recital ends this Saturday -- Ms Thomas says that she and her dance colleagues are impressed with her achievements so far.

"She has raised money through her shows and makes her students responsible by encouraging them to also help in that process,' Ms Thomas said. "Not only do they benefit from Suzette's dreams for them, but it's also a very good learning process, teaching young people respect, discipline and communication skills. Besides actively nourishing their dreams with these overseas trips, Suzette is helping them to become responsible individuals. I would say that many of us are truly intrigued by her determination and enthusiasm.'' For her part, Ms Harvey says the summer workshops for dancers aged between 15 and 25 will also benefit her teachers.

"It will help them become better instructors as well as giving them a chance of dancing and choreographing. I think it's time to do something in dance as far as our country is concerned! We have to be open and willing to learn. For my part,'' she emphasises, "I don't want to get too comfortable. That's why I think it's important for us to travel and work abroad so that we stay current with what's going on. My students need that exposure.'' Pat Thomas, who is on a return visit to the Island, is one of America's most highly respected teachers, an expert in the Martha Graham modern dance technique who has long worked with such companies as Philadanco and Alvin Ailey.

As far as she is concerned, her colleagues in the American dance world are anxious to help the spirited dancer and teacher who, starting with just a handful of students a few years ago, now has more than 500 students, many of whom perform as part of a vibrant young company.

"If she gets the right kind of help,'' concludes Ms Thomas, "I do believe that Bermuda could come to the forefront in dance.'' Suzette Harvey and Pat Thomas