The New York storyline centered on (Lea Michele) as she began her studies at the prestigious New York Academy of the Dramatic Arts (NYADA). The transition was far from easy; Rachel immediately clashed with her demanding dance instructor, Cassandra July (guest star Kate Hudson), who nicknamed her "Schwimmer" and challenged her "big fish in a small pond" ego.
This "show-within-a-show" format allowed the series to follow its graduates while simultaneously attempting to capture the lightning-in-a-bottle success of its early years with a fresh crop of students. The New York Evolution Glee - Season 4
Back in Lima, the New Directions faced a rebuilding year. To fill the void left by the "OG" graduates, the show introduced a new generation of students who often mirrored the archetypes of their predecessors: The New York storyline centered on (Lea Michele)