Calgary Dance Express fundraiser

Justin Seward
Times Reporter

 

The Calgary Dance Express is holding a gala fundraiser on March 7(5 p.m.) at the Chestermere Recreation Centre in support of the dancers trip to the U.K.
“It’s the Calgary Dance Express, however, half the kids are from Strathmore and surrounding area and this is a non-profit performing troupe whose mandate is to provide travel and performing opportunities, nationally and internationally,” said Anne Leeper, an executive member of the studio.
The performers over the years have had the opportunity to go to larger scale events such as Expos since being started up in 1986 by Heather Thomas.
“They went Expo ’86 that first year and so they’ve been going since then. Generally every two years is when they travel,” said Leeper.
This year’s trip will consist of a two-week, three-stop trip in the U.K.
“The kids will be going from July 2-16 to the U.K. and they’re going to perform at dance related workshops. It’ll be five nights in London, three nights in Edinburgh and three nights in Dublin,” said Leeper.
Other than the gala, there are various other functions held throughout the year to help raise funds to send the girls on these trips.
“We do a casino night, parents do a bingo once a month and so that way there are no upfront costs for the parents.”
The cost for the event is $35 while children 10 and under are $15.
Festivities include live entertainment, a silent auction, door prizes and a dance
There will be also live performances from the Dance Express cast throughout the evening.