dance'' at an overseas workshop.

The students are participating in a two-week summer workshop hosted by the University of the Arts in Philadelphia.

UDP founder Suzette Harvey said the experience will be "terrific exposure'' for the students.

"We have a tendency to be somewhat passive and relaxed in Bermuda,'' said Ms Harvey.

"They (UDP members) are good dancers, but they're not hungry enough. If they are deciding to make a career out of dance, they need to develop themselves early.

"They need to be more aggressive about dance and about what they want in life.'' Ms Harvey's idea for sending the students abroad for additional exposure was supported by former Alvin Ailey Company teacher Pat Thomas when she visited the Island in January.

Ms Harvey said this was the first time local students had participated in the programme, "but hopefully not the last''.

Members of the UDP company and junior company will have the opportunity to take a range of different mandatory dance classes, including ballet, modern dance, jazz, and tap.

And the students can also take electives like Afro-Cuban and African dance.

During their trip, the students will also visit New York and see a Broadway show and visit a few dance companies.

Proceeds from last month's UDP production "Fusion'' covered the cost of the trip.

Ms Harvey noted there were few productive outlets available for young people in Bermuda.

"Government is always talking about how the children are falling through the cracks, but they haven't developed a cultural centre or a place where they can spend a lot of time constructively,'' she said.

"If they could only see how productive, disciplined, well-behaved and self-confident many of the dance students become... Government really needs to do something for our kids.'' In the meantime, Ms Harvey said she will continue to try to inspire the young people around her.

"The students always talk about how much energy and drive I have after visiting the University of the Arts.

"I can't wait to show them some of what I've learned,'' she added. "It's really their turn to fly. They've got to get out there and spread their wings.'' CONFERENCE CON