In its 58-year history, the Jackson School of Performing Arts has never been afraid to explore new horizons, which is why their upcoming outer space themed dance recital might be considered appropriate.“I first started teaching at the school in 1983,” said director Jeanne Legere. “The Jackson School was the only dance school back then to offer all mediums of dance; ballet, tap jazz, and modern.“We also had the adjacent building which offered woodwind, piano, and drum lessons. We still offer drum lessons on the weekend.“The teachers back then were Barbara Frith, Heather Shrubb, Conchita Ming and myself. Most are still teaching at the school.”The school was started by One Bermuda Alliance MP Louise Jackson with early recitals held at the Bermudiana Hotel and the Colonial Opera House.It was while at the Colonial Opera House that the Jackson School first began performing shows revolving around a theme and that trend has continued on and off since then.Its production of The Snow Queen marked the first dance school performance at City Hall Theatre.Other shows included Peter Pan, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, Snow White, Dancing Through the Ages, Disney, and last year’s Hooray for Hollywood.“I learned a lot from watching Louise Jackson run the school,” said Mrs Legere. “She was a hands-on director. I took over as partner and managing director when Mrs Jackson retired in 1999.“We were the first dance school to offer Pilates and Barre One, a whole body workout, a fusion of ballet barre, Pilates and yoga.“We also added hip hop which was, and continues to be, very popular. It actually helped to bring boys to the school, and we now have 14 boys enrolled.”She said two Jackson alumni, Nikia Manders and Brittany Adams, went on to achieve dance degrees and are now teaching part-time at the school.“Ms Manders, who has a master’s degree in dance, is also the full-time dance teacher at the Berkeley Institute.“Another alumni, Shaydrina Hassell, is continuing her education at Drexall University in Philadelphia to get her master’s in dance therapy.Other former students include CedarBridge dance teacher Wanda Mazwell, who is about to get her master’s in dance education and management; Keya Perinchief, who has a degree in dance from University of the Arts and hip hop enthusiast Angelina Hayward.“The Jackson School is committed to offering a high standard of discipline and training in dance nurturing the mind and the body.“You often hear the dancers say this is not just a dance school it is our second home.“Qualified, caring teachers, appropriate costumes and music are all very important and is why the school continues to flourish even after 58 years in business.”She said this economy does present a challenge for some parents, yet many still find the means to send their children to dance classes.For those who are struggling, the Jackson School offers scholarships.“We believe it is important for anyone who wants to dance to have the chance,” she said.This year’s recital, Dancing Through the Universe, will be held at the end of June at City Hall.“It has proved to be a creatively inspiring theme for both the teachers and the students,” said Mrs Legere. “The Earth, moon, stars, planets and almost anything to related to our universe has been woven into the choreography for this year’s show.”Senior and intermediate dancers will perform an ensemble tap piece, Galactic Voyagers, choreographed by Barbara Frith. Other pieces in the show include Robotic Techno, Keplar-22, X Factor and The Blue Planet.Dancers of all ages will take part in the show which includes modern contemporary music, pop and hip hop.According to Mrs Legere, the school is passionate about broadening their dancers’ exposure to all forms of music, and introduces them to the standards, old school and importantly classical music through all stages of their education.“Age-appropriate music, choreography and costumes are a priority at the Jackson School,” said Mrs Legere. “Many of the senior and intermediate dancers are at the Jackson School every day of the week taking a wide variety of dance classes.“I am amazed by both their commitment and their ability to balance their dance and school schedules with many of them also involved in other extra-curricular activities.“These dedicated dance students are gaining valuable presentation, time management, teamwork and personal skills through dance which will benefit them throughout their lives.“I also recognise the commitment of their parents and families who are so supportive of their children.“The Jackson School has a true family atmosphere and, like a family, provides a disciplined, supportive and caring environment for all of its students.”Dancing Through the Universe will run at City Hall Theatre June 20, 21, 22 and 23 at 7pm. Tickets are $36 for adults, and $29 for students.Tickets may be purchased at bdatix.bm, Fabulous Fashions in Heron Bay and All Wrapped Up in the Washington Mall.