beyond dance@bergenPAC, directed by roberta mathes, is a unique dance program, and a step above because of their stellar faculty, world class theater and aim to maintain a highly professional standard in a non-competitive environment. The curriculum at beyond dance includes creative movement, pre-ballet, classical ballet, jazz (“mathes” technique), contemporary dance (Horton), ethnic fusion (a blend of African, hip hop and modern), hip hop, urban street, theatre dance, tap and yoga. beyond dance will offer an intensive for professional or pre-professional students who wish to improve their audition skills and learn about the business of “show biz!” During the academic year more advanced dancers can audition for their resident dance company, which is solely dedicated to performing and working with professional choreographers, learning different styles of dance. In addition to “in house” bergenPAC performances, the beyond dance ensemble is given outreach opportunities 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. Their faculty includes: Kelli Gautreau (High School Musical, Northshore Theatre, MA), Zan Charisse Guest (numerous Broadway shows), Ashani Kiner (Steps on Broadway, NYC, CEO of Kiner Enterprises), Yucari Kobayashi (roberta’s assistant at Steps on Broadway and New York Conservatory of Dance), Kirsten Lane (The Frogs, NYC), Camille Lewandowski (Paramus Catholic H.S.), Roberta Mathes (Steps on Broadway, ABT Summer Intensive), FranKey Rodriguez (Nike, Culture Shock), and Donna Starobin (Tap City 2004), Many of roberta’s students have graced the Broadway stages in Les Miserables, Sound of Music, Footloose, Mama Mia and currently Spring Awakening, while others have danced at Radio City Music Hall, Lincoln Center and The Metropolitan Opera House! In fact, Meredith Akins, originally from Englewood, was dance captain of Mama Mia and is now 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 or visit their Web site at www.bergenpac.org and click on education and then beyond dance.