The show began with a promise, that "Hope Street is....a place where dreams become reality in the escape through dance". The production, Hope Street Reconstructed by LA Dance Connection held on Dec 9 & 10, 2005 showcased a rising young company and approximately 35 dancers in a show that frankly, blew the audience away.

I've not seen many local dance productions in recent years due to a myriad of reasons but this one was different. So yah, I may be partially biased because some of us have been taking classes at LADC since earlier this year - but I'll strive for the honest opinion. It was refreshing to finally see our instructors perform. If you've been to any classes, you know the drill: You see these guys and girls each week, taking you through the steps, telling you that you do not have two left feet and occasionally supresssing laughter at your overall klutz-iness. It's one of the most fun experiences I've had but what many people don't get to see is the company dancers actually dance.

To say that this is the best show I've ever seen is overstating but for a fledgling dance company, it is certainly rife with opportunities and possibilities. Yes, the show could've been tighter with less cartoons - I've heard the audience groan a few times but then again, the lag was forgotten each time the dancers appeared on stage. The show was extremely high energy and the vibes coming off stage was just fabulous. You have to be there to hear the calls of encouragement and even see the little fan clubs that came to support the dancers :o)

The pieces were amazing. The audience was taken through a journey of different dance styles set to different backdrops. From the thumping urban sounds of Soul Dancer to the lush sounds of the Salsa piece, the modern realities of the Silent Scream and even dance-off featuring the LADC Hip Hop crew and the Dragones Latinos. Each piece showcased how the school and the dancers have grown in strength from its diversity of styles and the company dancers grasp of each piece. It is also heartening to finally see a performance that not only featured its company dancers but it's smaller dance groups.

Overall, I had a wonderful time watching and being part of the crew for the show. All I can say is that I can't wait for the next one :o) Congratulations guys, on a fantastic show!