To complement their study of Mandarin, fifth and sixth graders from James H. Vernon School recently received a visit from members of the Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company. The dancers took the stage in Vernon’s gymatorium to perform their culturally enriching program, The Art of Chinese Dance.
While wearing beautiful costumes, the professional dancers performed several Chinese dances such as the ribbon dance, long spear dance and the fan dance. They also educated the students on the history, geography and basic practice of traditional dance. Towards the end of the program, some students were selected to join the dancers on stage for a performance with colorful silk ribbons. The students had fun following along with the dancers.
The program concluded with a question-and-answer session. Students asked the dancers thoughtful questions and learned that each of the professionals were from a different part of the world. The visit was a truly enriching experience for the fifth and sixth graders who developed a better understanding of Chinese culture.
—Submitted by the Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District
