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Dancing Dreams
There is one more reason to get excited for new episodes of “This Is Us,” to return to the small screen. A graduating Penn-Griffin School for the Arts senior will be on it!
Madeline Underwood is completing her high school degree through Penn-Griffin, while also following her dream of dancing in California. Her senior year, she’s is dually enrolled in GCS and GTCC taking classes online and dancing with The Launch Training Program at the Brea Space.
“It wasn’t a problem at all. I told the counselor, and they were happy I had the opportunity, because that is what the school is about, going after your art,” said Underwood. “It just shows how cooperative and supportive Penn-Griffin is as a school.”
“We work with our students in situations like this , because these are opportunities you just can’t pass up,” explained counselor Kim Spell.
The move is already paying off, with Underwood earning a role playing a ballerina in the May 11 episode of “This Is Us.”
“Just being on the set and being in that environment, it was really cool,” said Underwood. “I thought my first job would be difficult, or something I wasn’t excited about, but I loved it.”
It’s a goal Underwood has been working toward her whole life, since starting dancing when she was 3 years old.
“I like the challenge that comes with dance, and it’s a great outlet. When I’m sad, even when I’m happy, I turn to dance to express those emotions and get those feelings out there.”
This won’t be her first national television appearance. Underwood was also featured in an episode of “Dance Moms.”
Underwood said she was grateful to find a high school that also allowed her to work on her art.
“I already danced outside of school, but this was a great way to incorporate more dance into my schedule,” said Underwood. “At Penn-Griffin, I also learned more about choreography and different styles of dance. School was more fun because I got to dance with my academics.”
Next year, Underwood plans to take more college courses online while continuing with her current dance program.
“I want to see where dance will take me. I hope to book more jobs and go on more auditions to see how life will take me as a dancer,” she said. “I’m also hoping to choreograph. I’ll be teaching at a dance convention in Charlotte next summer.”
Underwood says she’s grateful to Penn-Griffin for preparing her for whatever comes next.
“Academically, their classes are so good. They have the best teachers who are helpful and supportive, and with dance, I learned so much. The dance teacher taught me choreography, history of dance and how to perform on stage. I’ve learned how to work well under pressure.”
For those getting ready to start their high school careers, Underwood says, don’t procrastinate. “Figure out your time-management skills your freshman year. Always stay on top of things, and if you ever need help, don’t forget to ask your counselors or teachers.”