Essence Dance Company presented student talent at the annual Winter Dance Showcase on Dec. 8.

Sixteen routines, choreographed by students and dance teacher Terlene Terry-Todd, filled the Little Theatre with grace and exciting moves.

Junior Michelle Slivinski choreographed the first routine, in which the entire company performed to Ne-Yo’s “Beautiful Monster.” The dance featured hip-hop talent.

The following number was a solo composed and performed by senior Michael Hepfinger. The Bollywood number included up-tempo traditional Indian dance techniques.

A tap dance number followed. The dance, choreographed by junior Hailey Kemp, integrated precise tap techniques.

Senior Naimah Coleman choreographed the next routine, performing with juniors Chatel Robinson, Joanna Delao, and sophomore Breanna Pride. All dancers contributed grace to beautiful contemporary ballet steps.

Dramatic zombie-inspired choreography composed by junior Hailey Kemp followed. The entire cast performed the number with intense sequences of steps.

Juniors Macayah Hillman, Symone Damper, and Tiara Adams choreographed a sweet dance performed with juniors Ariana Walston and Hani Baloch.

Choreographed and danced by junior David Kurland, “Closure” displayed Kurland’s impressive technique and attention to detail.

Senior Jena Smith and junior Yeni Montalvo composed a piece which they performed along with Kurland, senior Huan Chen, and sophomore Ashley Osborne. The dancers gave a sweet performance.

Junior Jessica Ventura performed a solo, which she choreographed to Kelly Clarkson’s “Already Gone.” Ventura displayed great emotion that connected the audience to the dance.

“Slow Dancin’ in a Burning Room” featured couples attempting difficult skills with an added element—one blindfolded partner. Even without sight, the dancers continued to maintain great form and synchronicity.

Kemp followed with a solo that was dramatic all the way through. She captured the emotion needed to give an astounding performance.

Essence Dance presented the following number, choreographed by Smith. The group number incorporated hip-hop choreography.

Juniors Michelle and Helen Slivinski performed a “mad scientist” inspired duet. The dance, comprised of high level technique, told an entertaining story.

Subsequently, Latina Danza performed a Latin medley with engaging choreography and fast paced music.

The showcase concluded with an energized grand finale performed by the entire cast.