North Gwinnett News

Dance Conservatory students at the School of The Arts (SOTA) at Central Gwinnett High School had the opportunity to work with choreographer Darrell Moultrie this month. Moultrie, known for his collaborations with entities such as the Juilliard School, Atlanta Ballet, Savion Glover, and Beyoncé, is creating a piece for SOTA's Spring Show in May.

Lonnie Davis, Dance Department Chair, emphasized the importance of rigorous training in SOTA's pre-professional program. “It requires a consistent level of training to create that type of work in a short amount of time," Davis stated. "He only had eight hours in those three days... very similar to that of a professional company. The students have to first be disciplined, technically proficient, and open to the process.”

The upcoming Spring Show will carry the theme “Stage to Screen,” featuring music from motion picture soundtracks or musicals adapted into films. Over 140 students from various classes and backstage roles will participate.

Arayel, a 9th-grade dance student, expressed how working with Moultrie has influenced her perspective: “Mr. Moultrie has opened my eyes to a different way of thinking not only in dance but in real life as well."

Davis remarked on having Moultrie as their first guest choreographer: “Having Darrell as our first guest choreographer was a huge blessing. Someone with his talent is always in demand." He noted that witnessing the dancers adapt to Moultrie's pace and technical demands was affirming and sparked enthusiasm among them. "This is just the beginning," Davis added. "I'm thrilled that I've now been contacted by several choreographers wanting to come create on our dancers.”