Sonoma State Star > Arts & Entertainment
Sonoma State dancers honor retiring teacher
Published: Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Updated: Tuesday, April 27, 2010 21:04
A wise individual once said, "Dancing with the feet is one thing but dancing with the heart is another." To many people dance is not just a hobby for them but an opportunity to express yourself in many different ways.
This year, the "Nancy Lyons: Dance Retrospective," also referred to as the "Spring Ensemble," will capture just that. However, this spring ensemble is different than the ones before it, and in fact holds a special place in the heart of Nancy Lyons. This show is a bittersweet experience for both the students and their dance instructor, Nancy Lyons.
"This is my retirement celebration, which will feature dance pieces from the ‘80s to contemporary," said Lyons
After 40 years of teaching, Lyons bids farewell to the department of performing arts here at Sonoma State. She expressed her emotions on leaving the Sonoma State family.
"I feel mixed about retiring from SSU. On the one hand I know I'll miss the students and the teaching. But I also feel satisfied and grateful to have had the opportunity to make dance a viable life long career, and to have spent my work days doing what I love. And I'm looking forward to whatever adventures pop up after retirement."
Another reason this particular production is near and dear to her heart is due to all of the support her students and even Alumni are giving to her in this special time of her life.
"Many of the alumni and students of alumni are in the show. There are 15 dancers, 10 alumni and 30 high school students. People from all over the world are coming to watch the production, so it is very heartwarming."
Although, Lyons will not be returning to the Sonoma State stage next year, she has left a lasting impression on all of her students. No matter how long or short of time that they have spent dancing with Lyons, they all had something special to say to her.
"She has been a second mother to all dancers! She is super supportive and the sweetest, most kind hearted person I've ever encountered," said Esmeralda Pena.
"Thank you for the motivation and essence of dance you brought to everything, I feel absolutely blessed to be here," said Jacob Marks, a dance and communications major.
is a member of the 
Be the first to comment on this article!