Dance offers a comprehensive curriculum based on modern and ballet technique supplemented by improvisation, choreography, jazz, hip hop, yoga, Pilates, dance history, anatomy, nutrition, injury prevention, college and career preparation.
In addition to training with High Tech's professional faculty, students will also have the opportunity to study with guest artists and learn legendary choreography.
Dancers will have many opportunities to perform their own work as well as that of their instructor and guest artists throughout the year. At High Tech, dancers grow and develop their artistry and technique in an environment that is challenging, focused and supportive.
MUSICal theatre
faculty
Colette Jackson-Belle
Head of Musical Theatre Department
Colette Jackson-Belle is a recognized leader in arts education, inspiring students to unleash their creativity and cultivate their talents. She currently teaches Musical Theater at High Tech High School, where she previously served as a Vocal Music Consultant for both the middle and high school levels.
Colette is the founder of Studio 31, a performing arts school she established 20 years ago. Studio 31 has become a vital hub for transforming aspiring artists. She also directed theater at Ms. Huguette’s Broadway Dance and Theater for 13 years, helping students develop not only their voices but also a love for musical theater.
Colette's musical journey includes training at esteemed institutions such as the Manhattan School of Music and Westminster Choir College. Under the guidance of acclaimed mentors like Phoebe Snow, Dr. Melanie Mitrano, and Sharon Sweet, she refined her skills and has performed on prestigious stages including The Metropolitan Opera House ,Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, The Civic Opera House, and the Kennedy Center throughout her impressive professional career.
With 20 years of directing numerous musical theater productions, Colette’s artistic contributions have significantly enriched the local cultural landscape. Her influence extends far beyond the stage; as chairperson of the Newark NAACP’s ACT-SO Program, she mentors youth across 33 fields of study, sharing her extensive experience as a past national ACT-SO winner in classical voice.
Colette also serves as chair of the Bayonne Youth Center, where she is dedicated to ensuring that the arts are not just a privilege for a few but a right for everyone. Under her leadership, the center offers a diverse range of free programming, including theater, music, art, mindful movement, sports, and community outreach initiatives aimed at supporting the local community.
Her unwavering commitment to excellence in the arts, coupled with her dedication to community service and social justice has earned her recognition, including the esteemed NAACP President's Award. Through her efforts, she continues to inspire and empower youth, ensuring that every child in her community has access to the transformative power of the arts.