Focused, disciplined, talented and hard-working — that was the unanimous opinion of the instructors at the Broadway Dance Center in New York City at the conclusion of recent dance workshops attended by students of the In Motion School of Dance (IMSD). The 14 Bermudian girls, aged 12 to 17, who are members of the local dance school's Junior and Senior companies, were joined by former IMSD student Courtney Lopes, who is now studying dance in the US.

While the emphasis was on jazz, ballet, tap and modern dance were also included in the intense, all-day workshops which began at 8 a.m.

The Bermudians were given the opportunity to participate in classes led by various celebrity personalities, including Sabra, recent winner of the TV programme, 'So You Think You Can Dance', and runner-up Cameron; the lead choreographer of the Broadway show, 'Mary Poppins'; and the choreographer of 'Legally Blonde', another Broadway show.

In addition, the 17-year-olds were tutored by Tyce Diorio, who is one of the main choreographers of the 'So You Think You Can Dance' show, while the younger dancers had classes with Chio, a hip-hop and jazz/modern instructor.

A concluding improvisation competition for all workshop participants was won by 12-year-old Bermudian Chelsea Furtado.

The Bermuda dancers were also excited to meet Travis Wall, contemporary dance instructor and competitor in the 2006 'So You Think You Can Dance' competition, who had visited Bermuda as a guest of the National Dance Foundation of Bermuda.

Participation in overseas workshops is a regular part of the IMSD training programme for student dancers.