Dancing in a new direction

The Laguna Beach High dance department has a new director and students are excited about their first show of the season, “Synchronicity.”

Led by Lisa Jay, the dance team will perform “Synchronicity” at 7:30 p.m. at the Artists Theatre today and Saturday.

The title, which means a coincidence of events that seem to be meaningfully related, aptly describes the 12-dance program choreographed by Jay, colleague Danielle Pigneri, and guest choreographers Tracey Bonner and Jaclyn Butterfield.

“I left the freedom to the choreographers to be personally creative with their routines, and they did a great job,” she said. “The thing I really love about this show is the diversity. The show is a medley of ballet, jazz, jazz funk, lyrical [a combination of ballet and jazz techniques] and tap dancing.”

From ethereal tutus to red sequins and ripped tights — and Mirah’s “The Garden” to Usher’s “Yeah!” — the combination of movements, costumes, music and light effects paint a colorful show.

There is even a Latin ensemble to “Al Palo” by King Africa, that incorporates tambourines.

Freshman Sarah Busic, who has danced since she was 5, said she is happy to be a part of the first show.

“The pieces are well integrated, and there is something for everyone,” she said. “It’s turned out really great.”

Chloe Cunningham, a junior who has also danced since preschool, and will perform in two ballets and a lyrical, said she’s enjoying the dance team more this year and wants to be involved with the performances.

“I am excited about having Lisa as the new teacher, and the program is moving in a really good direction,” she said. “It’s been so much fun.”

Jay recently moved to Southern California from Hawaii, where she taught contemporary dance and ballet at the Mid-Pacific Institute in Honolulu for 12 years.

She has taught at various schools since 1985, including The New York at Broadway Dance Center and Millennium Dance Complex in North Hollywood.

Her professional career ranges from live stage performances to television, including ABC’s “Lost” with Evangeline Lilly and Matthew Fox to MTV’s “Dance Life.”

“I am all about dance — pure dance. I love having the freedom to just create and not be bound by anything,” she said.

Of her time at the high school thus far, Jay said it’s been a great experience.

“I feel there is a lot of talent here,” she said. “I believe in giving my students a well-rounded education in dance, so I’ve made changes [in the program] to accomplish this.

“The choreographers I’ve chosen have added not only to the show, but to the diverse experience of our students.”

Senior Caitlyn Healy, who has been on the dance team since her freshman year, said she is much happier with the program these days.

“I’m learning new ways to express myself [through dance] and our team is like a family, which I love.”

IF YOU GO

WHAT: “Synchronicity”

WHEN: 7:30 tonight and Saturday

WHERE: Artists Theatre, 650 Park Ave.

INFORMATION: Cost is $8 for students/seniors, $12 for adults and $15 for reserved seating. Call (949) 497-7769 for information or to purchase tickets.