Southold Dance Theatre Recognized at Youth America Grand Prix
Dancers Awarded at Prestigious Dance Competition

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (January 9, 2012) – Southold Dance Theater (SDT) has once again been recognized as one of the best dance schools in the Midwest.  At the prestigious Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) semi-finals competition held in Chicago, SDT’s selected works were among over 300 entries representing 35 dance schools from 10 states and one Canadian province.

Southold dancers walked away with a third place ensemble award and several soloist recognition.  The following ensemble pieces were reconized:

“The Reel” from La Sylphide choreographed by Erica Fischbach and Amy Rose
“Acceleration” choreographed by Carlos dos Santo, Jr.
“Identity” choreographed by Dawnell Dryja
“Giselle Friends Dance” choreographed by Erica Fischbach

The following soloists were also recognized: 

Simon Costello – Third Place Junior Classical Soloist
Indiana Cote’ – Interlochen Scholarship Winner
Nick Cowden - Top 12 Junior Classical Soloist
Bethany Green  - Top 12 Senior Classical Soloist
Leah McFadden – Top 12 Junior Classical Soloist
Leah McFadden – Top 12 Junior Contemporary Soloist
Raffaella Stroik – Top 12 Senior Classical Soloist
Theresa Thomas – Top 12 Pre Competitive Soloist

We are so proud of our dancers,” said Erica Fischbach, Southold Dance Theater Artistic Director. “They are passionate, talented and dedicated artists who are more than deserving of these outstanding honors.”  

“To receive this kind of recognition is an honor and a testament to the exceptional dance program that we have at Southold.” explains Marty Heirty, Southold Executive Director.

Southold’s exceptional performance at the regional Semi-Finals has led to an invitation to compete in the international YAGP finals this April.  The competition will be held in New York City against a pool of qualifying ensembles and soloists from across the United States, Australia, Asia, South America, and Europe.

About Southold Dance Theatre:
Southold Dance Theater (SDT) is a regional training company dedicated to dance excellence. SDT is the only dance organization in the region to offer a pre-professional track of study for the serious dance student. As the resident dance company at the Morris Performing Arts Center, Southold enriches its audience with high standards of performance. The enchanting classic, The Nutcracker Ballet, is a favorite mainstay of the holiday season. Southold's production has featured live orchestration, guest artists, custom designed scenery and costumes, and a cast of hundreds. To learn more, visit www.southolddance.org.