Everyone is a winner

Posted on: J A McRae

Shannon LeClair – Times Reporter

Students at Expressions The Dance Studio took part in the Great Canadian Dance Challenge from July 8 to 11. This was the first time the group of 14 dancers had taken part in a competition of this level, which took place in Kelowna, B.C. There were over 2,000 dancers competing in the three-day competition.

“I think they really enjoyed it. I think it was a really good overall experience that they can grow from and return to next year and work towards to stay up there near the top,” said Heather Thomas, owner of Expressions The Dance Studio. Everyone from the studio placed at the competition, earning a total of three high silver medals, nine gold and two high gold. The dancers from the studio ranged in ages from four to 16. Lane Habing, 4, won one of the high gold medals with her Ms. Muffet character ballet dance. Neve Raycroft, 7, won the other high gold for her tap solo.  “It was really fun, I enjoyed seeing the differences in styles and choreography between studios and provinces,” said Brittney Standing, one of the dancers.  She hopes to return and said she is grateful for the opportunity, and she found the atmosphere welcoming even though it was competitive.

Desirae Thomas, 14, performed in five groups and won two high silvers and three golds at the competition.  Desirae has been dancing for 10 years and has been competing in some form since she began dancing. She would like to one-day work for Cirque du Soleil

“I found it very fun and a very good thing to work up to,” said Desirae.

This was it for the dancers for this season, but in a few weeks they will begin choreographing for next year. Heather said they plan to return to something of this caliber again.