Bridgeport High School junior, Makayla Miler, was selected as the only Bridgeport dancer to perform with Extreme Talent Showcase’s holiday show in New York City last month, a goal she hopes to repeat this year. Miller, who has been dancing since she was young, now dances ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, modern, pointe, hop hop and tumbling. 

 

After qualifying to perform, Miller joined Robert C. Byrd High School’s Kaylie Gower on the trip, which required intense practices. The two had top scoring solo performances at their studio, which earned them the spots to New York City. 

 

Although Miller had danced in The Big Apple previously with Altered Productions, the Extreme Talent Showcase offered a unique opportunity to perform for Candlelighters NYC, a non-profit that provides support for families with children fighting cancer. The dance team had raised over $1000 for the charity and presented them with a check.

 

“Although a huge snow storm prevented some of the families from attending the show, it was an honor to perform for such a wonderful audience and to meet the kids,” Miller said.  “They were very moved by our performance and we were equally excited to dance for them.”

 

The jazz dance performance included New York-themed songs and a mix of holiday music. Miller’s previous dance experience with Joffrey Ballet School no doubt added to the excitement of performing in New York City.

 

The Extreme Talent Showcase also booked Radio City Music Hall behind-the-scene tours for the dancers, giving them the chance to talk with real Rockettes.  They met Fairmont native Sophie Sea Silnicki, who is a current Rockette and Miller found the famous performers to be quite inspirational.

 

“It was really nice to have a personal connection and see the costumes up close,” she said.

 

After the Extreme Talent Showcase team watched the Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular, they were treated to a reception and then a Broadway show.  Later that night, they were recognized by the staff at Ellen’s Stardust Diner in Times Square, where they enjoyed seeing other performers follow their dreams.

 

Miller hopes to continue dancing and make a career of it after she graduates.  Her dedication to dance has allowed her to explore a diverse mix of styles and also meet other dancers from all over the country.  She plans to audition in March for this year’s New York City performance to be a part of the Extreme Talent Showcase one more time before she graduates.