Paso Robles dancer takes first place at national event
Quinn Newman of Paso Robles.
Third grader Quinn Newman awarded top score and scholarship
– Quinn Newman of Paso Robles earned first place overall and top score in her division at the HEAT Dance Convention in Santa Clara on May 8. Her performance of “The Amazing Gertrude” from Seussical the Musical earned her the title of regional champion at the national event.
Newman, a third grader and company member at Main Street Dance, received an almost perfect score for her musical theater solo. In addition to the top placement, the convention faculty awarded her a full scholarship. The scholarship recognizes performance quality, technical training, professionalism and dedication.
The HEAT Dance Convention features instruction from nationally recognized industry professionals and draws competitive dancers from across the United States. Newman’s winning piece was choreographed by Taylor Santero, a local dance professional based on the Central Coast.
“When I started developing the concept for this piece, I knew it needed a performer who could bring both energy and heart to the stage. Someone unafraid to commit fully, tell a story, and have fun doing it,” Santero said. “Creating The Amazing Gertrude with Quinn has been one of the most joyful and rewarding choreographic experiences I’ve had.”
Newman trains in North County and has participated in multiple competitions. This marks her first year as a soloist.
“Quinn’s work ethic and determination are truly beyond her years. The dedication she pours into her craft is rare, not just in dancers her age, but even older,” Santero said. “Quinn has already earned an impressive list of high-scoring awards and accolades; an extraordinary accomplishment, especially as a first-year soloist. Watching her thrive with grace, strength, and consistency has been inspiring. I have no doubt she’s just getting started.”
Local audiences can see Newman perform The Amazing Gertrude live during the Main Street Dance Company showcase on Saturday, May 17, at the Templeton Performing Arts Center. More information is available at MainStreetDanceTempleton.com.
This girl is truly amazing! Her focus, work ethic, dedication and talent are beyond her years. She is simply a joy to watch!
Congrats Quinn! We are so proud of your accomplishments as a dancer and the way you have represented the Central Coast this dance season. You have such a strong work ethic, determination, and stage presence for one so young. We can’t wait to see where your passion and love for performing takes you in the years to come. A special thank you to her very creative choreographer and teacher, Miss Taylor, for putting together such a fun-filled routine that is so enjoyable to watch. It’s just amazing! To all of the Main Street Dance Company teachers: thank you for the long hours of hard work you put in to help your dancers shine on stage, while simultaneously providing a nurturing and fun learning environment. We see you and appreciate you! Bravo everyone!
This girl is truly amazing! Her focus, work ethic, dedication and talent are beyond her years. She is simply a joy to watch!
Congrats Quinn! We are so proud of your accomplishments as a dancer and the way you have represented the Central Coast this dance season. You have such a strong work ethic, determination, and stage presence for one so young. We can’t wait to see where your passion and love for performing takes you in the years to come. A special thank you to her very creative choreographer and teacher, Miss Taylor, for putting together such a fun-filled routine that is so enjoyable to watch. It’s just amazing! To all of the Main Street Dance Company teachers: thank you for the long hours of hard work you put in to help your dancers shine on stage, while simultaneously providing a nurturing and fun learning environment. We see you and appreciate you! Bravo everyone!