Brother and sister Devin Crews 10 and Kylee Crews 12 are tag teaming to choreograph this year’s musical, Once On This Island. 

Being such a large show, their role is an important part of the creative process. Although getting a start was hard for them, they eventually gained their inspiration from “Just Dance” dances and choreographed in the style of jazz with an island feel. They also accented specific parts of the music that weren’t necessarily uniform throughout the whole song, and added new layers to an otherwise simple piece. 

Since they’re working with their peers, the process has had its highs and lows. Having to balance assertiveness and shared respect has been challenging but very beneficial to the process.

“Teaching the choreography can be rough. I’m not a very assertive person, so it’s hard for me to command people,” Kylee Crews said. “It’s nice to have Devin there so he can do it for me.” 

Mr. Clark asked Kylee Crews to choreograph this show last year, so she and Devin had all summer to work on the dances. Having a total of 4 big songs, the process was long and procrastination was their enemy. 

“I was surprised when Mr. Clark asked me to choreograph this musical because choreographing The Great Gatsby was a rough experience,” Kylee Crews said. “The fact that he made it a “me” thing was strange because between the two of us, Devin is the big dancer. I was confused, but also super excited.” 

Although balancing assertiveness and procrastination has been a challenge, dance is still an outlet for Kylee Crews to express herself, and her love for this art form will always be unconditional. 

“Dance is a really fun and unique way to express yourself,” Kylee Crews said. “There are different emotions found in the music that you can put interesting movement to.”