The Texas Dance Educators Association hosts an annual two-part event featuring a dance conference and convention designed for both dance educators and elite dancers. During the conference, educators from across Texas participate in master classes and seminars covering various dance genres, helping them sharpen their skills, learn new choreography, and connect with others to enhance their teaching and coaching techniques. The All-State Dance Convention, held simultaneously, provides a unique opportunity for selected dancers to represent their school and district in a large-scale dance production while attending master classes and exploring collegiate dance pathways. 

Frenship’s very own Varsity Pom Captain, Landry White, was selected to attend the convention, showcasing her talents alongside 300 other elite dancers from across Texas. While there, White was able to grow as a performer and collaborate with other top dancers. 

“She took a handful of master classes but mostly spent less than two days in lengthy rehearsals learning this incredible production number,” said Varsity Pom Coach, Melissa Oakeley.

White’s hard work, refined technique, and passion for dance earned her a standout role among the best dancers in Texas, highlighting her as a true representative of Frenship excellence. 

“When you’re a dancer performing in a sea of 300 of the best, all we can hope for is that we can spot a glimpse of her somewhere in the production number. We were beaming with pride to see Landry had earned a spot front and center for a large majority of the routine! She was also selected to be in the more advanced turning section that she had to audition for. She shined so bright and made all of Frenship Nation proud,” said Coach Oakeley.  

Click here to watch the video of White’s performance. She can be found in the center back section at the beginning, and when the front section drops down you will be able to spot her in the center left back, then you will see her again in the center formation.  

“What is so impressive about this performance is not only how fast they learned it, but also the fact that she did this routine four times back-to-back, and this video was the 4th run,” said Coach Oakeley. “It shows not only her skill to learn and perfect so quickly but also her athleticism to execute it so powerfully despite the exhaustion.” 

Coach Oakeley is very proud of White’s commitment to Frenship’s Dance Program over the last four years.    

“I am beyond proud of Landry. Landry has given so much to this program for four years and has been an outstanding captain and leader,” said Coach Oakeley. “She has always put her team's needs before her own and during this trip she was able to show that leadership on a grander scale.” 

White has been dancing for most of her life. She really enjoyed being selected as an All-State dancer and having the opportunity to showcase her skills on the state level.  

“I feel incredibly fortunate to have represented Frenship at the TDEA conference. Being named an All-State dancer was a tremendous honor,” said White. “I had the chance to perform alongside 300 amazing individuals and connect with others who share my passion. This experience truly opened my eyes to the power of community. It was inspiring to witness how 300 strangers united through our shared love for dance.” 

Her favorite part was the camaraderie and sense of belonging she experienced while working alongside a passionate and supportive community. 

“I cherished the opportunity to meet new people and forge friendships that will last a lifetime. The dedication and commitment of everyone around me had a profoundly positive impact on me, inspiring me to push my own limits and strive for excellence,” said White.  

White wants to express her gratitude for the Frenship Dance Program and the impact it has on her dance career. 

"The Frenship Dance program has profoundly influenced not only my skills as a dancer but also my development as a person,” said White. “After being involved in both the dance program and the Varsity Pom squad, I can confidently say that this is one of the most remarkable programs I have ever experienced. A key reason for its exceptional nature is the leadership of Oakeley, Fergie, and Smith. Their dedication and passion created an environment that fosters personal growth, enhances character, and boosts confidence. Their impact has made this program truly special.” 

Congratulations, Landry White! We are proud of you and your commitment to excellence.