beyond dance@bergenPAC, directed by roberta mathes, is unique and a step above, because of their stellar faculty, world class theater and their aim to maintain a highly professional standard in a non-competitive environment. This summer, June 16 - August 21, they are offering 10 weeks of afternoon and evening classes for all ages and levels, as well as two summer workshops. Creative Dance for ages 4 - 6 and directed by Camille Lewandowski, is offered from July 7 - 11, August 4 - 8 and 11 - 15, and a Dance Intensive is available from July 7 - 18 and from August 4 - 15. Creative Dance programs, from 9:15am - 12:15pm, will include ballet, jazz and tap. Dance Intensive, a full-day program from 11am - 4pm, includes different styles of dance, as well as an acting workshop, and culminates with a performance on the Bergen PAC stage. The curriculum at the Bergen PAC includes classical ballet, jazz (“mathes” technique), contemporary dance (“Horton” technique), ethnic fusion (a blend of African, hip hop and modern), hip hop, tap, yoga and creative movement and pre-ballet for younger dancers ages 3 - 5. During the academic year more advanced students can audition for their resident dance ensemble, which is dedicated to performing, working with professional choreographers and learning different styles. In addition to “in house” bergenPAC performances, the ensemble will be given other opportunities in various locations throughout the community and in NYC. Performing gives the students a great sense of pride and provides them with a valuable learning experience while boosting their self confidence. Students are offered a genuine taste of NYC as their knowledgeable faculty provides professional coaching for those interested in dance as a career. The excellent faculty includes: Yucari Kobayashi (roberta’s assistant, ABT and STEPS, NYC), Kirsten Lane (The Frogs, NYC), Camille Lewandowski (Paramus Catholic H.S.), FranKey Rodriguez (Nike, Culture Shock). Many of roberta’s students have graced the stage in Les Miserables, Sound of Music, Footloose, Mama Mia and currently Spring Awakening, and have danced at Radio City Music Hall, Lincoln Center and The Metropolitan Opera House! roberta’s former student, Meredith Akins, originally from Englewood, is currently performing in the Chicago production of Wicked! For more information on beyond dance, its extensive programs and faculty, please call (201)816-8160, ext. 33.