Steamboat Springs — Euphoria, the title of the 19th annual Steamboat Springs High School Dance Showcase, is defined as a state of intense happiness and health confidence.

The name also captures feelings of dedication, excitement and eagerness from each of the 40 dancers.

A show that started as a senior class project and now is an extracurricular activity, is student-run and student-produced.

Devoting their time and effort, these dancers in their freshman through senior year will take the stage at 7 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday in the high school auditorium.

The 17 dance pieces will be more contemporary takes on traditional styles of dance, including anything from hip-hop and belly dancing to jazz.

One performance that never has been done in the past will be the aerial piece. Aerial is a modern form of dance that incorporates aerial hammocks made of a silk material. Those then are attached to the ceiling and used by the dancer to explore space in three-dimensions.

“We worked really hard this year to have a lot of variety,” said Hanna Haggarty, showcase director and aerial choreographer. “This piece is a really graceful, fluid style and it shows what our high school students are capable of.”

Rehearsals started in October after the open auditions. The showcase auditions were open to everyone in the high school, no matter what level of dancing ability.

“I’m excited to see everyone doing what they love and to see them have fun dancing and know those hours of stress and hard work will have paid off,” said Ann Brenner, adult coordinator for the showcase. “From spending time with them in rehearsals, I’ve seen all of them grow so much and it’s exciting to watch it all come together.”

Prices for reserved tickets are $15. General admission tickets are $12 and student ticket prices are $8 and $5 for those students with an activity pass.

To reach Audrey Dwyer, call 970-871-4229, email adwyer@ExploreSteamboat.com or follow her on Twitter @Audrey_Dwyer1