In what has become an annual January tradition, Anne Arundel County Public Schools’ dance program has once again stepped into the state spotlight, with 13 dancers earning All-State honors. The distinction places the dancers among the top 26 in Maryland.
The All-State dancers, along with three county dancers who earned Honorable Mention, were selected through an audition by a panel of arts administrators and college/university dance faculty. Award selection was based on technique, musicality, professionalism, performance, attitude, and likelihood of future success in dance. Dancers also must have a cumulative grade-point average of 3.0 or better, show leadership at their schools, and have a record of service to their local dance program.
“We couldn’t be prouder of our dance program and our incredible students for achieving the honor of All-State Dance and honorable mention,” AACPS Academic Specialist for Dance Education Nicole Deming said. “Their hard work, passion, and dedication have truly paid off, and this recognition is a testament to their talent and commitment to excellence.”
The following AACPS dancers were named All-State:
· Claudis Yanss, Arundel High School
· Mallory Willis, Broadneck High School
· Gracie Beers, Crofton High School
· Sasha Failli, Crofton High School
· Maliya David, Old Mill High School
· Katherine Kirvan, Old Mill High School
· Vicky Beatty, Severna Park High School
· Sophia Crivella, Severna Park High School
· Leola Keys, Severn Run High School
· Audriana Nier, South River High School
· Alyssa Stallings, Southern High School
· Tessa Stallings, Southern High School
· Catherine Venters, Southern High School
In addition, the following dancers earned All-State honorable mention:
· Cassidy Gallimore, Broadneck High School
· Bailey Deming, Chesapeake High School
· Janae Johnson, North County High School
The All-State recognition was just one of two honors for Failli. The Crofton High School senior earned the inaugural Excellence in Student Choreography Award at the Maryland Public High School Showcase. The prestigious award recognizes exceptional talent and innovation in student-created choreography, celebrating Sasha for her visionary approach to movement and performance. Her piece, titled “Stay,” stood out among submissions earning high praise from adjudicators for its creative expression and ability to push artistic boundaries. The award marks a significant milestone in the student’s dance career and highlights the growing recognition of student-led creativity in the arts.
Locally, the talents of these and other dancers from schools at all levels across Anne Arundel County will be on display as part of the 44th annual Anne Arundel County Public Schools Dance Festivals beginning February 12, 2025. Information on dates and times of performances can be found at www.aacps.org/dancefestival.
