Unhindered by the looming snowstorm or the copious amounts of chocolate potentially consumed on Valentine’s day or the day after for 75% off, the tappers of Tap Out Loud and the Latin dancers of Paraiso Latino took the stage for the third annual Festival of Dance. On February 14th and 15th, they showed Weber Theater some serious toe-tapping and hip-shaking.

The theme of this year’s festival was Dancing Through the Decades. The songs that were danced to ranged from jazzy sounding pieces, to Tina Turner, and all the all the way up to Katy Perry’s “Roar.” Paraiso Latino also performed the Latin numbers that they are known for. The two groups alternated throughout the performance, and each had a special number especially for the seniors of the group during the second act. The first act also featured an electric guest performance by SOLE, Wheaton’s step team.

Tap Out Loud is under the direction and choreography of Caitlin Sylvia ’14, Allison Dennett ‘14, and Courtney Sitzman ‘15. Paraiso Latino is under the direction and choreography of seniors Lila Guidera and Geovanny Reyes. Both groups also work with faculty member Julie Searles, a fervent supporter of dance at Wheaton.

The rehearsal process for the two groups was, in a few words, long and sometimes grueling, but also fun and rewarding. The choreography performed had been rehearsed all year leading up to the performance. However, this, the end product, was certainly a worthwhile success, with a sizeable and highly enthusiastic audience and an impressive and well-received performance.