On January 8, Rye Country Day welcomed Parsons Dance to campus as part of the Strong Visiting Artists Program Concert Series. A leading contemporary American dance company, Parsons Dance aims to bring life-affirming performances and joy to audiences worldwide, while nurturing an appreciation for dance through education and outreach programs.

Students in all divisions enjoyed a world-class performance from the Parsons dancers, who are known for their dynamic blend of precision, musicality, and expressive movement.

Later in the day, members of the Cedar Street Dance Company, RCDS’s audition-based Upper School dance group, participated in a master class with members of Parsons Dance. Students were guided through a contemporary warm-up and learned movement drawn from the company’s repertory. 

When I was given the opportunity to bring a dance company in for the Strong Family Dance Concert, I immediately thought of Parsons Dance. Being a former dancer with the company, I knew firsthand just how powerful and captivating Parsons Dance is for an audience. Hearing the reactions and applause from the students backstage was amazing and brought the dancers a lot of positive energy on stage. 
                    --Nicholas Fearon, Upper School Dance Teacher

RCDS is extremely grateful for the Strong Family, Roger and Nancy Strong P’12, and their daughter Sarah Strong ’12, for their continued generosity in bringing exceptional visiting artists to campus and enriching the cultural life of the Rye Country Day community.