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Students from Salem State’s dance program entertained audience members from around the world on June 11 at the Waterside Amphitheater in Downtown Disney in Orlando, Florida. Under the direction of assistant dance professor Meghan McLyman, they performed an 18-minute dance, titled Slumber Party, composed of student and faculty choreography.

The company of dancers included Salem State students: Kelsey Blanchette, Brittney Bythrow, Jake Crawford, Heather Crowe, Kayleigh Cyr, Caitlin DeVine, Brenna Kenney, Nicole Gariepy, Lindsey McGovern and Sarah Walther. All are active performers and choreographers in the dance department’s Salem Dance Ensemble and Repertory Dance Ensemble, a part of Student Government Association’s groups and clubs. Student Ryan Goodwin accompanied the group, serving as costumer and stage manager.

Their performance was extremely well received by the audience and Disney Cast Members. The students were acknowledged for their outstanding performance skills on stage and the choreography stood out because of the strong story line that was interwoven between each dance section.  

This unique experience exposed these students to the professional performing world at a national level in one of the most high-profile venues in the world. In addition students participated in an exclusive dance workshop led by professional Disney dancers. They learned authentic Disney choreography, performance and audition tips, resume writing, and how to land a Disney dance job.

The students dedicated their performance and their work at Disney to Meaghan Noel, a Salem State dance student who passed away in a tragic car accident on March 9, 2015.