Our History
The James Bowie High School Silver Stars Drill Team has brought pride and acclaim to the South Austin area for over 30 years. They are known as innovators in the dance community, having flawless dance technique, impeccable precision, and incredible style. The Silver Stars have won countless awards and titles, traveled the United States performing and competing, while remaining at the forefront of their craft.
Beginning in 1988, the Silver Stars have received top honors in the categories of jazz, lyrical, contemporary, kick, modern, open, pom, and more. Some of their many recognitions include: State Champions, Best of the Best, Winner’s Circle, Best in Class, Super Sweepstakes Winners, and Best Overall Team. Their soloists have placed 1st Division and have taken top honors as State Champions and Overall Finalist Winners.
The Silver Stars have taken their talent far and wide across this great country. Some of the places these ladies have performed and/or competed include: Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, Turtle Bay Resort in Hawaii, Disneyland in California, Disney World in Florida, Chicago, and in front of the steps of the Capital in Washington, DC where the Presidential Inauguration takes place. On these trips they have taken master classes with some of the top teachers, choreographers, and dancers in the industry. Wherever they go, they leave a lasting impression.
The Silver Stars have had only four Directors in their illustrious history. Ms. Mary Beth Kepper was the creator and founder of the organization in 1988. She was a graduate of the University of Texas, a member of the Longhorn Band, and a Drill Team Director for thirty years. She was the recipient of the Texas Dance Educators Association Director of the Year, Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Hall of Fame Award. Mrs. Jennifer Dawson was the second Director of the Silver Stars for 10 years and was a former student of Ms. Kepper’s. She was a Kilgore College Rangerette Officer and a graduate from the prestigious Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Arts Management at Oklahoma City University. She served as the President of the Texas Dance Educators Association and was a finalist for Director of the Year. The third Director, Mrs. Courtney Allison, was a graduate of Texas Woman’s University with a Bachelor of Arts in Dance Performance. The current Director, Ms. Leanne Bilnoski, was a Kilgore College Rangerette and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Arts in Theater and Dance.
The Silver Stars continue to bring pride, grace, and excellence to Bowie High School with their commitment to honoring the traditions of the past, while continuing to push the boundaries of artistry into the future.