Arts
Dance Programs
Middle School Dance
Grades 5-8
Our Middle School Dance Program empowers students at all levels, from beginners to advanced dancers, to grow as artists and individuals. Rooted in strong technical training, the curriculum spans ballet, jazz, modern, contemporary, and lyrical dance styles, providing a comprehensive foundation in both movement and artistry.
Students dive into the rich world of dance through the study of technique, history, terminology, choreography, and performance skills. Alongside developing physical discipline, they cultivate creativity, self-expression, and an appreciation for the art form.
In a supportive and inclusive environment, dancers are encouraged to explore their unique artistic voice. Throughout the year, students bring their learning to life through recitals, student choreography showcases, in-class showings, and multimedia presentations that celebrate their growth and achievements.
Junior Sundancers: Middle School Dance Team
The Jr. Sundancers are Gulliver’s premier Middle School dance team, showcasing the talent and dedication of advanced-level dancers. Members are selected through an audition process and possess strong technical training, performance skills, and a solid foundation in choreography. In addition to rigorous technique classes and after-school rehearsals, the Jr. Sundancers proudly represent the school at a variety of events including campus performances, community showcases, and competitions.
In the 2024-25 season, the Jr. Sundancers were titled Regional and State Champions in the Jazz Small Team Division at American Dance Alliance Competition. In the 2023-24 season, they were titled State Champions in the Production Small Team Division and earned second place with a recognition for choreography award in the Contemporary Small Team Division. In the 2022-23 season, they earned State Champions in the Jazz Small Division and second place in both the Contemporary and Lyrical divisions. These are highlights among the many recognitions throughout the years.
The Jr. Sundancers are ambassadors of school spirit and artistic excellence, continually making an impact through community engagement, dynamic performances, and a passion for dance.
Upper School Dance
Grades 9-12
The Gulliver Prep Dance program initiates mindful ways to be diverse, accepting, and well-rounded. As a vehicle for growth, students develop confidence, positive self-esteem, concentration, and responsibility as they work independently and creatively collaborate in group experiences. Each class level delves into the richness of the past while also celebrating current times, as students learn relevant terminology and are able to express themselves in genres from ballet to contemporary movement and more. Courses offered include Intro to Dance, Dance Intermediate 1, Dance Intermediate 2, Dance Honors, Dance Composition Honors, IB SL Dance and Dance Repertory Honores (via audition only).
The dance program hosts two concerts each year, as well as a Student Choreography Showcase where students are able to showcase their personal creative abilities. Yearly, the department offers students the opportunity to study under master teachers within, and outside of, the South Florida community. In 2021, dance captains from the following Broadway shows taught our students virtually: On Your Feet, Swing, Moulin Rouge, and Hamilton. Performing Arts trips have included New York City in 2019 and Chicago in 2022, to experience live performances and attend workshop classes. Gulliver Prep is a member of the National Honor Society for the Dance Arts and three of our dancers have been honored as Florida State Winners for artistic merit and leadership in 2015, 2021 and 2023.
As ambassadors to the community, the Dance Club serves the elderly, the homeless, and underprivileged children in need of dance classes or attire. As a club, members also attend a live performance to support the arts.
The Sundancers, our award-winning dance team, represents the school at athletic, community events and compete at the local, state, and national levels where they have received top accolades in solo, duet, ensemble, and team categories.
Sundancers: Upper School Dance Team
The Gulliver Prep Dance Team, the Sundancers, is composed of advanced-level dancers who are selected by a panel audition and the Dance Director each spring. These dance students compose the Dance Repertory Honors class and attend after school rehearsal which prepares them for performances and competitions, the team performs at school sporting events, pep rallies, and other activities in and around the community.
The Sundancers have been recognized by prestigious dance organizations including the National YoungArts Foundation and the National Dance Education Organization. Gulliver has received numerous awards at the state and national level including National Champions in the jazz category at West Coast Elite Nationals in 2018; National Champions in the contemporary category at Dance Team Union and Contest of Champions Nationals in 2019; first place in contemporary, jazz, and hip hop in virtual competition in 2021; 1st place officer line in 2022; and 1st place open category in 2023.
Dance Faculty Contacts
Grades 5-8, Jr. Sundancers
Carla Duval
Middle School Performing Arts Chair & Dance Director
