this week's eighth annual performance.

"We've grown from nine students to over 600,'' said UDP founder Suzette Harvey. "We're dedicated to increasing student's self-awareness and self-esteem, and hope that our children will be well-versed in the art of dance.'' Ms Harvey said many of the students performing in this year's recital participated in the master classes held throughout the year during midterm breaks.

Some of the guest artists who taught the master classes were also choreographers for UDP's recent production "Metamorphosis'' including Kevin Mallone, Hope Boykin and Hollie Wright.

Ms Harvey noted that the structure of UDP models after most educational institutions, "whether dealing with the arts or academics''.

"We endeavour to teach with a sense of equality. However, we understand there are students who will excel in some areas more than others -- but we hope that each student will come away from UDP with a sense of great accomplishment.'' Ms Harvey also announced that the last artist in UDP's series of master classes will be on Island next week, sponsored by the Bank of Bermuda.

Assane Konte, a dance teacher from Senegal, West Africa, will be teaching at the Victor Scott Primary School from June 14 to 17. The first class for ages 7 to 13 starts at 4.30 p.m., and the 13 to adult class starts at 6.15 p.m.

And Ms Harvey urged members of the community to come out and dance, watch, or play along with the drums.

Show time for the recital is at 7.30 at the Ruth Seaton James Auditorium.

Tickets are $15 for students, $25 for adults and are on sale at the City Hall box office between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

In sync: United Dance Productions' 8th annual recital begins this week and promises to showcase the artistic talents of their junior troupe.