After 15 years together, Campion Dance Society mounted its 13th Season of Dance with Nexxus at the Little Theatre this past weekend.

The production featured a mix of classic and new works, highlighting the group’s growth and its commitment to developing young talent.

Artistic Director Dwright Wright said the society has grown into one of Jamaica’s most respected student-led dance ensembles. This anniversary season reflected the group’s depth and ongoing contribution to the performing arts.

The weekend opened with a special matinee performance dedicated to children in State care, students from schools across the island, children’s homes, and the elderly. Hundreds of students attended the outreach event on Friday, July 11. At the end of the show, the young attendees were treated to refreshments and a meet-and-greet with members of the cast and creative team.

Nexxus featured some of Campion’s signature works and several premières.

Skin Deep by Orville McFarlane addressed the pressures placed on young girls to conform to beauty standards. The dancers moved with intention, drawing a strong connection with the audience.

Turbulent Soul, a new work by Shavaughn Byndloss, was a reflective presentation that demonstrated internal focus and emotional discipline while Syndicate by Andrew Bailey featured sharp formations and strong ensemble execution.

Another new work, Indawo Yokumemela by Paul Newman brought a celebratory folk-inspired rhythm and visual contrast, offering a different style and energy that broadened the overall presentation.

Voices by Kareen McLean closed the first half of the show with a quiet intensity that created a powerful pause in the evening’s flow.

We Are Men, choreographed by Wright and first performed in 2014, returned to the stage striking a balance between strength and reflection.

The final piece, Bashment, was a dancehall-inspired work that brought a high-energy close to the production. The audience responded with visible engagement as the dancers delivered vibrant choreography.

As part of the anniversary celebration, four individuals were inducted into the Campion Dance Society Hall of Fame: Dr Aaliyah Hall, for dance performance; Orville McFarlane, for national contribution to dance; Rebecca Tortello, for outstanding stakeholder support; and Dr Marilyn Wright, also for outstanding stakeholder support.

The season was a clear reflection of Campion Dance Society’s values of discipline, collaboration, and growth. The group continues to provide a platform for young dancers to develop their skill and artistic voice. Its 15th anniversary served not only as a celebration of the past but also as a statement of what lies ahead.