By Julia Rossiello
Fashion and dance are two of senior Rebecca Gelfand’s favorite things. As a Fashion Show coordinator, she combined both, creating an unforgettable experience.
When she was three years old, Gelfand’s parents signed her up for her first dance class. She said, “I ran out of the room crying during my first class, but after a few classes I loved it and haven’t stopped dancing since. I love that there are so many types of dancing; it’s a great way to express myself. I am able to just forget about anything that’s going on and focus all my energy into dancing.”
She went on to say, “I also enjoy fashion because it is another way to express myself. There are so many different styles, and I love taking risks and wearing different things. I can express my mood or how I’m feeling through fashion, and it’s also just fun experimenting with clothes and accessories.”
Gelfand performed in Fashion Show as a junior; however, being a coordinator was an extremely different experience. In addition to dancing in skits, Gelfand designed sets, choreographed, and compiled songs. She said, “As the show got closer, we would spend hours each day making sure everything was ready.”
Even though the show involved a lot of work, Gelfand loved the experience.  “This year’s cast was really amazing, and it was fun to work with the other coordinators. We all got really close,” she said.
According to Gelfand, there were many memorable moments. One that sticks out in her mind was right before the show. She said, “When we were behind the curtain waiting for the show to begin, the other coordinators and I held hands in a circle and closed our eyes. We hoped the show would be everything we wanted and worked so hard for. We were ecstatic with the finished product and couldn’t have asked for a better show or cast.”
Gelfand believes that the show was a great opportunity for her and all of other performers. Accordingly, she strongly encourages all students to try out for the show next year. She said, “Even if you are not a great dancer, there is more to it. You learn so much.”