Shining Beyond the Spotlight: Adrianna DeSimone Ushers in the Next Generation at NYPAC

By ISABELLA CUADRADO

As the local dance season gracefully winds to a close, families across Washingtonville reflect on a year of long rehearsals, competitions, recitals, and late night costume runs. At the New York Performing Arts Center (NYPAC), the final curtain may have dropped, but the passion for movement never stops. And as the music fades and final bows are taken, a new star is just beginning to rise. Fourteen-year-old Adrianna DeSimone, freshly named Protégé Captain for the 2025–2026 season, is stepping into a spotlight of her own—not defined by trophies or titles, but by the grit it takes to lead with heart.

When asked about the toughest challenge she’s faced, Adrianna doesn’t mention costumes, choreography, or competition scores. Instead, she paints a powerful picture: “Think of it as you are by yourself in your room, dancing in front of your mirror, not thinking about what others think. Because if you are the one putting in the most work, it will show. Just perform, and have fun with it. Let your body take control.” That mindset—the blend of confidence, passion, and perseverance—sets the tone for her next chapter.

While school sports often dominate headlines, community-based performing arts programs like NYPAC quietly shape just as many leaders and resilient individuals. For Adrianna, who has danced for eleven years and currently juggles eight classes a week—most at the competition level—NYPAC has been more than a studio. It’s been a place of growth and confidence.

“When I was younger, I was shy. I had no idea how to speak up,” she shares. “Now, I’m a social butterfly. It comes naturally to me to go up to people and talk to them.” One of her biggest challenges came this year when learning a headspring—an acrobatic skill that pushed her limits. “I tried a few times, but it just wasn’t my thing. There were times I would give up and cry,” she admits. “But I kept practicing. Now I can do it consistently, and I’m going to keep working on it.”

That same perseverance defines her leadership. When former captain Khloe Burginstein passed her the title, she did so because Adrianna was “responsible and good with kids.” The studio agreed. Now, Adrianna steps into her role with pride, ready to lead NYPAC’s assistant teachers, coordinate schedules, and mentor new dancers. “This job definitely can be frustrating when you get last-minute texts,” she says. “But your expectations are to kind of roll with the punches and work quick on your feet.”

Some may question the time young students invest in dance, especially if they don’t plan to go professional. Adrianna hopes to become a cosmetologist, but says, “What I have gained from NYPAC is not only dance skills but another family and new friendships.”

As the season wraps, Adrianna’s story reminds us that the most valuable lessons aren’t always found on the scoreboard. If we want to build communities where young people thrive, we must celebrate success in all arenas. Sometimes, the brightest stars shine not under stadium lights, but beneath the soft glow of studio mirrors.