SIXTEEN years of dedication and passion culminated in a spectacular display of talent at Dance STEP’s performance, with the first recital held at Robinsons Place Iloilo on June 22, second recital at the Festive Walk Mall, Megaworld on July 13, and grand recital at SM City Iloilo on July 20, leaving audiences in awe.
The event, marked by enthusiastic roars and cheers, showcased the dynamic performances of the studio’s talented students.
Dr. Teresita “Teray” Ecube Portugalete Nolledo, a native of Oton, Iloilo, has seen her vision grow into a vibrant community of dancers. Her goal has always been to help students develop their dance skills, discipline, confidence, and a positive mindset.
Reflecting on this journey, Dr. Teray shared, “It was challenging to start a dance school, but I realized it’s even harder to maintain it. Our students are achieving so much, not just in performing arts but also in life. Our national and international winners might not dance forever, but they are now very successful in their chosen fields.”
This year’s grand recital featured students who took center stage, captivating both the audience and mall-goers with their impressive performances.
Dance STEP, which began its journey with a single studio in Oton, has expanded its reach over the years, establishing studios in Tigbauan, Guimbal, Tubungan, Igbaras, Miag-ao, San Joaquin, and Iloilo City.
“Our studio became a home for us. Even as we grow older, we always come back and dance whenever we have time. It’s not just about not letting our skills go to waste, but also about showing that wherever we go, we unite because of our passion for dance. Dr. Teray brought us together, and we share this talent and love given by the Lord,” said Dr. Janine Rovy Anne Arada Futolan, a pioneer of Dance STEP Studio.
Inclusivity is one of the core principles of Dance STEP. Discrimination has no place within its studios. Regardless of gender, age, economic status, or physical or psychological challenges, everyone is welcomed and treated equally. This ethos has created a supportive and encouraging environment where students can thrive.
Dr. Teray noted that this year has been especially memorable because of her pregnancy. For the first time in 16 years, she wasn’t the one teaching the students, but she was happy to see her senior students handling everything well.
Looking ahead, Dance STEP plans to open the main branch of the studio, provide a space for senior citizens, and offer more scholarships to students. The studio recognizes the talents of young students across various age categories: the kids category (3–7 years old), the pre-teens category (8–10 years old), the juniors category (11–12 years old), the teens category (13–18 years old), and senior students (19 years old and above).
“Perhaps this is the main ingredient for the studio’s longevity: they consider each member as family. This is ingrained in the minds of the students, that no matter where destiny takes them, they will always come back,” Dr. Teray emotionally emphasized.
As Dance STEP celebrates 16 years of excellence, it continues to be an opportunity for aspiring dancers in Iloilo and beyond. The grand recital was not just a showcase of talent but a testament to the studio’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of dancers./PN
