Sammi Carr's The Jaguars’ Spot column for Wed., Apr. 09, 2008

Windows: Looking Out … Looking In

No, that’s not the newest operating system from Microsoft, that's the title of this year's Annual Dance Concert under the direction of Tammy Merrick.

Ms. Merrick told me, "We wanted to create a theme for the concert that made our audience members question their lives and their roles in society. What parts of ourselves do we choose to show to the world? Do we stay behind closed windows and play it safe with the shades drawn? Or do we keep the window wide open, ready to engage with life and share ourselves with others?"

From what I’ve seen of the show, students at Valley Center High School have certainly left their windows (but hopefully not their “barn doors”!) wide open, ready to engage life to the fullest and share their artistic voice and passion for dance. "Windows: Looking Out … Looking In" will showcase the talents of members of the VCHS Dance Ensemble plus new work from faculty and guest artists in a variety of dance styles including jazz, modern, tap, musical theater, and hip-hop.

Nearly 150 students will perform original works by Ms. Merrick; Faith Jensen-Ismay, the artistic director of Mojalet Dance Collective; and the students themselves. There are 13 seniors this year who have choreographed, costumed, and lit pieces that represent their dreams, struggles, and passion for both their lives and the arts.

Performances take place at the Maxine Theater April 17, 18 and 19 at 6:30 p.m. There will also be a matinee April 19 at 1:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 and can be purchased at the door or online at www.maxine.vcpusd.net.

Believe me, you don't want to miss this “window” of opportunity to see the works of our very own dancers and choreographers from right here in Valley Center.

Here's something I betcha didn't know:

Once upon a time there was a high school located in the Center of the Valley. And at that high school (uh ... near the Spanish building) there existed a magical land called ... a bathroom although, strangely, this room had no bath. Er .. ANYway, this was a bathroom that only females used. In that bathroom there dwelt a wondrous device that, sadly, remained dormant for nary a soul could figure out how to make it release a the mysterious substance humans called “paper towels.” It was very frustrating because, after one washed one’s hands, one soon realized one had no means of removing the moisture from one’s dripping hands. Alas, eventually many maidens simply avoided using the restroom all together.

Then one wondrous day–oh, let’s call it “last week”–lo and behold, there appeared a brand-new paper towel dispenser! and all of the human girls at the mythical school bathroom where none could take a bath located in the Center of the Valley knelt and gave thanks ... to the wonderful janitorial staff!

Know something I don't know? Catch me on campus or send me an e-mail at sammi@carrfamily.com. See ya. Sam.