Shawn Cardona

My name is Shawn Malaluan Cardona and I am a senior and a co-captain for the Advanced Dance Team. I am one of the student directors for this show and this will be my third year in the Lakewood High School Dance Program. Dance is what made the person I have aspired to become. Dance is not just a hobby, it has made its way into my life in every aspect. This program not only helped me discover myself, but it also connected me with so many other people from around the school with the same passion. Being the Advanced captain brought out my leadership skills which not only requires discipline but also connecting with each of my team members individually. Being one of the stage directors brings out my endless creativity, this positions showed me my love for choreographing. This journey is nearly coming to an end but I still have an obligation to fulfill as a captain and a director.

Kaleigh Ordonez

My name is Kaleigh Ordonez. I have participated in the Lakewood Dance Department for 4 years since 2021 and I have been on the team for the past 2 years. Being in dance my entire high school career has brought a series of ups and downs but in those years I was taught many lessons, achieved tremendous growth but most importantly, I found my love for myself. Dance will forever be my dearest accomplishment. My first team and last. Dance reminded me of my purpose when I thought I didn’t have one. As captain I hope to impact my girls’ lives just as I was. Being given this opportunity of being captain has shown me what it takes to be a leader, and now till my time ends as captain I will continue to be the best and dedicated captain as I possibly can.

Katelyn Chhou

My name is Katelyn Chhou and I am the current co-captain for Intermediate. I have been a part of the dance program for three years now, and I am so grateful to be able to share my passion for dance. With dance, I became more confident and I was able to connect my emotional and creative sides together. I learned how to become a team player and encourage others, which I express in my captain role. I am so grateful for dance and all the people that truly impacted my experience.

Mia Cruz

My name is Mia Cruz and I have been dancing for LHS since my freshman year. Dance is important to me because it's my peace. When I dance, I feel like I can just let go and be myself and not worry about anyone else. Dances provides a space to process and express emotions in a way that feels freeing. It allows my body to speak when my words fall short. My experience as a captain has been hard and sometimes good. It's my first time as captain so Im still getting used to it, but I have grown a bond with my teammates and we have come a long way and I wish the best for all of them.

Serena Rodarte

My name is Serena Rodarte. I danced for 10 years at my local studio and danced on Lakewood's advanced dance team for all four years of high school. I now come back to choreograph for Lakewood's current team since it will always be apart of me. When I am not choreographing I am working at my mom’s insurance company as an insurance agent. I choose to choreograph for Lakewood in my free time because it reminds me of my high school days and I love making dances that make the kids feel things. I gain joy knowing the kids enjoy performing my dances and look forward to seeing them all on stage. Good luck team!