New Dance Ensemble Wins Prize, Exposure

Castle Dance Ensemble, only a few months old, has claimed the title of 2013 Jeans Warehouse High School Dance Competition winner. Teacher Natalie Uehara (front, center) proudly displays the proof. Photo from Natalie Uehara.

Though it’s only in its infancy, the Castle Dance Ensemble has won a valuable prize in the Jeans Warehouse High School Dance Competition: first place.

That distinction comes with a $500 Jeans Warehouse gift certificate, plus a featured performance in an upcoming TV commercial or an ad for the apparel company.

“We plan to use (the gift card) for costume pieces,” said director Natalie Uehara, noting that the TV exposure should help in landing new opportunities for dance concerts.The contest required each troupe to submit a video of its performance as well as an essay.

Uehara heads the fine arts program at Castle High and directs Castle DanceForce. The Dance Ensemble, however, aspires to emulate a professional dance company with a diverse repertoire (ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop and more) that promotes the art in the community as well as upholding high academic standards.

And it’s only a few months old. As stated in the ensemble’s essay, “We are in need of uniforms, performance practice and exposure.” For more information, or to offer help, call Uehara at 786-512-0442.