Walking down the Springbank hallways toward the dance studio, room 519, you pass walls lined with framed Broadway posters from past theater performances—a nod to the school’s rich performing arts history. Further down, the images shift to classical ballet dancers: Michaela DePrince in Don Quixote, members of prestigious dance companies, and snapshots of contemporary and classical dance movements. The studio itself is a sunlit sanctuary, with mirrored walls and ballet barres stretching along the room. The gleaming wood floor reflects the morning light streaming in through the side window, while the steady beat of Bollywood drums pulses from a speaker in the corner.

At the front of the room, choreographer Sheila Oak Maggin and dance instructor Courtney Betzel guide a small group of dancers through their routine, preparing for the upcoming spring performance. Maggin demonstrates a series of precise hand gestures and expressive facial movements while Betzel watches her dancers mimic the movement and count out the rhythm. The dancers follow with focused intensity, their movements beginning to blend the rhythmic precision of classical Indian dance with the grounded energy of hip hop.

Bringing Authentic Cultural Experiences to the Classroom

West Potomac High School’s Dance Academy has secured a significant grant to bring world-class dance instruction to its students, enriching their understanding of both hip hop and classical Indian dance. Spearheaded by Dance Academy Director Courtney Betzel, the grant allows students to participate in masterclasses led by accomplished choreographers from ClancyWorks Dance Company. This initiative not only expands students’ technical dance skills but also deepens their appreciation for the cultural roots and stories behind these art forms.

Courtney Betzel knew from the start that she wanted this project to be authentic and meaningful. “I wasn’t satisfied with the other methods we’d used to expose students to cultural dance forms,” Betzel explained. After researching various dance styles and organizations, she connected with ClancyWorks Dance Company, known for its commitment to blending artistry with cultural identity.

Through ClancyWorks, Betzel brought in two expert choreographers: Sheila Oak Maggin, a specialist in traditional Indian dance, and Devon "Steeltoe" Wallace, a hip hop artist. “It was important to me that the students learned from artists who are classically trained and deeply connected to the cultural history of these dances,” Betzel said.

Betzel emphasized the importance of exposing students to different dance styles beyond the usual ballet and jazz. “I really wanted students to see the similarities between dance styles and understand that movement—whether it’s hip hop or Indian classical dance—tells a story.”

Learning the Story Behind the Dance

For the students, this experience has been eye-opening. Myla Grace Williams, a sophomore in the Dance 1  Academy class, shared how working with the choreographers has reshaped her understanding of dance.

“I always thought dance was just about movement,” Williams admitted. “But now I see that it’s about telling a story. The movements and expressions are like a play—it’s a way of showing emotion and sharing culture.”

Williams found the transition between hip hop and Indian dance particularly interesting. “Some parts feel familiar, like everyday moves from hip hop, but then there are new terms and techniques I had never heard before,” she said. “It’s been a challenge, but it’s made me a better dancer.”

Insights from the Guest Choreographer

Sheila Oak Maggin, who has been teaching Indian dance for over 12 years at Rhythmia Dance Studio, was excited to share her expertise with the students.

“Indian dance is deeply rooted in storytelling,” Maggin explained. “It’s about facial expressions, body language, and the emotions behind each movement. The students really connected with that—especially when they realized how much it overlaps with the expressive nature of hip hop.”

Maggin highlighted how makeup and costuming also play a significant role in Indian dance. “The eyeliner and lipstick help to emphasize the eyes and mouth, which are essential for communicating the story,” she said. “It’s more than just the steps—it’s about the whole presentation.”

She also noted how the students’ openness to learning has made the experience particularly rewarding. “They’ve shown a lot of respect for the traditions behind Indian dance, and it’s been amazing to see them start to blend those movements with their own style.”

Trying on Tradition

One of the most exciting moments for the dancers came when they tried on their costumes for the first time. The outfits, made of vibrant kelly green fabric adorned with gold sparkly accents and a delicate floral design, shimmered under the studio lights. The two-piece set featured a flowing ankle-length skirt that swirled dramatically with each turn and spin.

After slipping into their costumes, the dancers gathered in front of the mirrors, adjusting the fit and taking in their reflections. Maggin smiled as she helped them position their matching scarves—a key accessory in Indian dance. “The scarf gives the outfit a more genuine traditionally Indian feel,” she explained. “It will flow and move nicely with the skirts.”

Once everyone was dressed, Betzel cued the music, and the students began working through their routine. The flowing skirts added a new element to their movements—turns became more dramatic, and hand gestures took on a refined elegance. 

From the Studio to the Stage

The project will culminate in a spring performance titled Bravo, which will showcase the students’ work blending hip hop, Indian, Latin, and classical dance styles. “It’s going to be a celebration of dance and culture,” Betzel said. “It’s important to recognize and celebrate all forms of dance and the diverse backgrounds of our students.”

For Williams, the experience has already left a lasting impact. “I’ve always dreamed of dancing on Broadway,” she said. “This experience has shown me that dance isn’t just about technique—it’s about expressing yourself and connecting with the audience. I can’t wait to share that with everyone at the performance.”

A Lasting Impact

Betzel hopes this project is just the beginning of a long-term relationship with ClancyWorks and similar professional dance organizations. “Depending on funding, I’d love to continue bringing in artists from different backgrounds,” she said. “Dance is a powerful tool for understanding culture and building connections. This project proves that.”

With a mix of cultural exploration, technical growth, and creative expression, the Dance Academy’s masterclass project is setting the stage for a remarkable spring showcase—and shaping the future of dance at West Potomac for years to come.