DA is a celebration of movement. They consider themselves a family that gives students at Aliso the ability to find their passion for dance. Dance Appreciation (DA) started as a club but has grown into so much more.
DA was founded by John-Paul “JP” San Pedro in 1997, the same year Aliso Niguel first opened. As a sophomore at Aliso, JP and a group of his friends wanted to create a platform for students at Aliso Niguel to perform and share the art of hip-hop dance.
As DA enters Season 28 with its team of Aliso’s best dancers, they live by the motto “Like What.”
DA is coached by David Lim and Aliso Niguel alum Jasmine Orcaz. This year’s captains are Alyssa Vargas (12) and Avah Parsi (11). The officers include sergeants at arms Noelia Rodriguez-Martinez (11) and Nicole Aguirre (11), team relations officer Lexi Burgonio (11) and social media manager Zoe Vovan (11).
Students of all grades at Aliso Niguel are welcome to try out for DA. Tryouts take place at the beginning of the school year.
They are looking for dancers who will continue their legacy and contribute to the growing success of DA.
Senior Avery Reyes (12) says, “To me, DA is not just a school activity. It has become my family and a safe space for me to express and voice myself and my opinions while also pursuing dance.”
During the season, DA works with different choreographers. They help the dancers learn new pieces and techniques for their performances.
DA has many performances and competitions throughout the year. Some performances take place at Aliso and some require them to travel to a different school.
Coach Jasmine Orcaz shares, “I am excited for our competition season, we had a very strong season last year so I think all of our dancers are really fired up to make this another successful one.”
Their first performance was at this year’s freshman orientation. DA also performed at all the pep rallies. They were a big hit at the homecoming pep rally earlier this year.
DA has another upcoming performance at Aliso Niguel, on Nov. 21. Their annual Cabaret Night will be held in the Aliso Niguel theater.
DA closes out their season with their annual end of the year showcase. Not only does this showcase their final performance, it is also a major fundraiser for the DA program.
Avah Parsi (11), one of the captains, says, “My favorite memory was the showcase. It is super fun and emotional because it is our last performance with our seniors. It’s also not as stressful because we aren’t under the pressure of judges watching us.”
DA is not funded by Aliso Niguel High School. They rely solely on donations, fundraisers and money from their showcase. They use this money for competition fees, costumes, and transportation.
As they prepare for their competitions this season, DA is putting in the work to nail down the choreography. DA is confident in their team and they feel ready to make this a successful year.
Their passion and motivation over the years have led to the program’s growing success. DA is looking forward to another great season.
