Best Musical Theater Choreography
About the Superlative Awards
The Year in Review 2008 Superlative contest on DancerUniverse.com got the online dance community buzzing with interest and anticipation. Dance studios from all over the country logged in and uploaded a total of 189 numbers. Then, they sat back and waited anxiously while thousands of readers like you voted for their favorites.
Numbers eligible for the Superlative contest contained anywhere from four to 40 dancers and covered a range of disciplines, from ballet to hip-hop and even a special Teacher of the Year contest to honor those hardworking and dedicated instructors. In addition, there are two winners of the special Editor’s Choice Award, chosen by members of the Dancer Publishing team. These videos did not receive top scores, but they were so exceptional in style, choreography and execution that we had to spotlight them.
Talent, creativity and true artistry abound, the Superlative contest gave studios the opportunity to display their work and readers the chance to express their opinions. The contest wrapped up on December 22nd, at which point we tallied the scores and determined the winners.
In the following you’ll find biographical information about each studio as well as the back-story behind each dance. Look out for the fun facts accompanying every article—they’ll give you a greater sense of just how much work went into creating these award-winning routines. We know you’re itching to see who won, so without further ado, here are the 2008 Superlative winners!
Best Musical Theater Choreography
Temecula Dance Company – “My Favorite Son”
Temecula, CA
temeculadancecompany.com
What better way to celebrate an election year than with “My Favorite Son,” a piece dedicated to celebrating the long tradition of Americana. With inspiration from old Busby Berkeley films, and “Broadway Melody of 1933,” the choreographer brought Vaudeville to the small stage. Focusing on the uses of complicated transitions and detailed formations, the dancers spent hours insuring their steps were in perfect unison. Intricate handwork and bench work took months to perfect, and many of the dancers were required to adjust to the novelty of dancing in heels. The routine was a smashing success, with audience members returning to see the dance a second time.
Fun Fact: The Rockettes inspired the elements of precision in “My Favorite Son.”