By: Mia Angulo
Hip-Hop XL is an after-school program that is offered to Redwood students for an opportunity to learn choreography. Redwood alumni, Isaac Saesee, runs Hip-Hop XL. Saesee has been teaching this program for almost nine years.
The program is beginner-friendly and anyone is welcome to join. “Be patient and trust the process. We all have to start somewhere,” says Saesee to beginners.
“Not only does he break it down step by step if you don’t quite understand the moves, but he teaches at a slower pace so everyone can eventually get the hang of it,” says Starlet Vaughn ‘24.
Saesee is well known in the dance community. He has taught at multiple dance studios and at various schools in Visalia. Saesee’s style is recognizable and keeps his students coming back year after year.
“I joined XL because I enjoy dancing! XL overall is just a fun and safe environment. I feel welcomed,” says Aaralyn See ‘25. Many students chose to join to experiment with their passion for dance. Their love becomes even stronger as connections are made within the group.
“It’s a fun and easy way to develop your skills, which helps with learning the dances faster,” states Solomon Burciaga ‘24. Having that extra practice is really beneficial to get the choreography down. Hip-Hop XL meets three times a week for two hours.
When asked what his goals are for the future of Hip-Hop XL, Saesee responded,
“I want to encourage more people to step out of their comfort zones and to not be afraid to experiment with their own style.”
Dancers may learn the same choreography, but every dancer has their own unique spark that makes them stand out in their own special way.
“My favorite part of this program is that I get to see the improvements and self-confidence grow throughout the year,” says Saesee.
If you’d like to check out Hip-Hop XL they meet on Monday, Tuesday, and Friday from 3:30-5:30 pm in the cafeteria.
Mia Angulo
Mia Angulo, ‘24, is in her fourth year of writing and her third year as an editor for the Redwood Gigantea. Mia is a member of the Redwood Law and Justice Academy, Hip Hop and Yoga Club. Mia is passionate about dance and writing and hopes to continue to do both in the future.
Tags: arts and entertainment, dance, redwood gigantea, redwood high school, redwood journalism, redwood rangers, xl program
