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BOUNTIFUL -- Viewmont's annual dance concert displays trademark talent and also signals the end of an era.
Artistic Director Bonnie Pierce will retire at the end of the year after nearly three decades of overseeing the school's dance program, along with other responsibilities.
Few schools can boast such a successful program. Viewmont often produces sterling scholars in dance. A list of students has gone on to major in dance at universities and many own or teach at local dance studios.
In this concert, we noted the impressive number of dancers who performed in one dance en pointe. A few former students now have their own children dancing at Viewmont.
But dance is not the only focus for Pierce's students. They also learn the importance of service. Ticket sales for each performance raise money for community charities. Pierce is known for creating a yearly theme that somehow encompasses the charity of choice and the dance productions.
"It's very much learning, cross curricular, there are a lot of dimensions to it other than just dance," says Pierce.
Part of their commitment to service includes dance outreach. Viewmont dancers invite nearby elementary students to their dress rehearsals. They also perform an annual benefit concert at Guadalupe School for many students who have never been exposed to live dance performances.
Pierce believes the arts are a critical part of education. She has taught generations of dancers develop their talent and use it to help others.
E-mail: dwimmer@ksl.com
