DMS Senorita Annie Farry Even “Teaches” from the Stage …

 It was a beautiful, sunny, late Fall morning, as over 150 Dedham Middle School 6th grade Spanish class  students, lined up to board the waiting buses for a class enrichment trip to Boston. As a result of a combination of student activities, fundraising efforts and weeks of planning and hard work, DMS Spanish teachers Annie Farry and Christina Gamel were able to secure transportation and seating for the school`s 6th grade students to attend a performance of the Learning on Stage – Viva Flamenco program at the Berklee Performance Center.

 Viva Flamenco is a music and dance program, designed to have students (grades 6-12) gain an understanding and appreciation for the culture of Spain. Using this combination of music and dance, the bilingual presentation offers a unique way to excite and endear those to the Spanish language. Since its inception in 1991, over 3 million students and teachers have participated in Learning on Stage productions.

 This particular show featured the Flamenco style of song and dance. The students learned that Cante Jondo is made up of deep and profound material, while Cante Chico is happier and more lyrical. A great deal of attention was paid to the Cante (song), Toque (guitar playing), Baile (dance), and Palmas (hand clapping) in each song.

 The 150 Dedham Middle School students joined busloads of other students from schools across the state, to fill the 1,200 seat Performance Center to capacity. Chants of Ole and Bravo rang out throughout the show.

 Near the end of the one hour plus performance, some of the teachers in the audience (DMS Spanish teacher Annie Farry included) were invited up on stage to dance and “show the audience what they had learned.” To the delight of fellow DMS teachers, Ms. Gamel, Mrs. Gvirtsman, Vice Principal Margo Fraczek, the parent volunteers and the students, this high-energy show ended on a high note.

 Following the show, the students got to walk down Boylston St. and have lunch at the Prudential/Copley food court, before heading back to school. A wonderful time was had by all who attended and as they say in Spanish: “Eso es todo, gracias…”