Einstein Dance Company Presents Original Works
The Albert Einstein High School Dance Company was selected to perform two original works at the 2026 Regional High School Dance Festival Gala Concerts. Held March 4-8 at the Governor's School for the Arts in Norfolk, Virginia, this festival is the largest event in the country dedicated to high school dance programs. Submissions are adjudicated by dance professionals from across the country, who evaluate creativity, choreography and performance excellence.
This year, “Fissure”, choreographed by teacher Hannah Kerr, was selected to open the Saturday evening Gala Concert. “The Soul Selects its Own Society”, choreographed by senior Diego Ochoa Diaz, was selected as one of only nine student works to be featured in the Friday Gala Concert. Diego’s piece was also a finalist for the Outstanding Student Choreography Award.
Q&A with Diego Ochoa Diaz
What is The Soul Selects its Own Society about?
Set in a dystopian society, the piece explores the power of breaking free from conformity. Blindfolds symbolize how we can move through life without fully seeing our own potential. The work reflects on identity, belonging and the people who help guide us toward becoming our most authentic selves.
What do you hope audiences take away?
I hope people understand they never have to conform to fit into the world around them. Even in moments of pressure, doubt or isolation, there is strength in choosing yourself.
What does this opportunity mean to you?
I feel honored to have been selected to showcase my student work at a regional level. Seeing my vision come to life—from a mere idea to the stage—has been incredibly rewarding. I’m so grateful for my teacher, Hannah Kerr, and for my dancers, who are the most vital part of this process.
Where can people watch the performance?
Q&A with Hannah Kerr
What is Fissure about?
Drawing inspiration from Rumi’s The Guest House, this dance explores the human experience as a shifting landscape of emotions. Rather than elevating certain feelings or pushing others aside, the work centers on the practice of noticing and welcoming each emotional state as it arrives. Through embodied movement, the dance suggests that openness to emotion is not a vulnerability but a strength—one through which insight, resilience, and transformation can emerge.
What do you hope audiences take away?
I hope the viewer leaves with a sense of connection, or with an emotional stirring that lingers beyond the performance.
What does this recognition mean to you?
Being selected for the Regional Gala is a powerful recognition of the dedication, artistry, and discipline of AEHS dancers. This honor reflects not only the excellence of their work, but also the collaborative spirit and commitment that define our Dance program.
Where can people watch the performance?