Dear Family and Friends, As you probably know, I have a deep passion for dance. From the age of 7, I’ve grown up taking classes in the studio and performing onstage, refining skills in technique, choreography, and work ethic. Since then, I’ve found that dance is more than an engaging activity to me; it is a form of art that brings me joy, allowing me to explore and express myself through movement. In my final year as a senior, I get the privilege to be in my second year with the Dance Jam. In this company, I dance every day after school for about 15 hours per week. The curriculum involves training in ballet, contemporary, and pilates classes, as well as dedicated hours towards composition and rehearsal. In the Jam, we not only work in the studio and learn advanced repertoire, but we also produce our own home season. From funding and marketing to the program and tickets, we manage every component of our show. This has taught me the true fundamentals of being in a professional dance company. The Jam’s rigorous program has revealed to me the importance of being diligent, meticulous, and persistent. In developing both technically and artistically, I have found the drive to further pursue dance past high school. Moreover, I’ve gained opportunities to work with incredible instructors and artists while forming lasting friendships. The Jam has truly become a second family. This year, I’m excited to announce the coming of our home season, Reminiscence, which falls on the weekend of April 4th and 5th. In celebration of the Dance Jam’s 30th anniversary, we will showcase five unique pieces, including an ODC Company work and new composition. Any amount you give makes a huge impact because it helps to subsidize our performance, lighting design, videographers, and beautiful reception. Every contribution is sincerely appreciated. In a production titled Reminiscence, I can’t help but look back on my own dance journey. As a graduate, I can see the ways I’ve grown from when I first stepped foot on the stage as a young kid. Every movement, every class, and every show has meant one more step towards where I’m at as an artist today. Yet, I couldn’t have done it without your support for me and my passion, so I want to express my deepest gratitude. Thank you for your presence and thank you for your encouragement; it has truly meant the world. With love and gratitude, Rylan-Christian Pon
Under the leadership of School Director Kimi Okada and Dance Jam Associate Director Doug Gillespie, the ODC teen contemporary dance company performs work by the choreographers of the professional company, ODC/Dance, as well as renowned guest choreographers. Members of the Dance Jam are challenged with the creation of new works and the complexities of training in multiple dance techniques through a 5-day per week training schedule. With mentorship from ODC staff, the Dance Jam produces all aspects of their annual home season in ODC Theater, richly expanding their skill sets and understanding of work both on and offstage within a professional setting.
Please support this community of young dancers with a donation of any size to help produce their April 4 & 5th, 2026 performances.
"You won't want to miss this evening of glorious dancing and bracing choreography performed by a dynamic talented team of youthful artists! Come experience the future of dance." - Brenda Way, ODC Founding Artistic Director
As part of their home season performances, the Dance Jam will perform a full program of works including a world premiere by Doug Gillespie. Repertory works include Deep Ascent, choreographed by Babatunji Johnson, Specifically Particular, choreographed by Dexandro Montalvo, Foreign Postmark, choreographed by Kimi Okada, and the ODC/Dance company repertory piece Breathing Underwater, choreographed by Brenda Way.