The Estevan Recreational Dance Club took part in its first-ever competition over the weekend, with impressive results at the Inspirations of Dance event in Weyburn.
Studio owner and head instructor Brooke Wilson said the club decided to form a competition team for the first time this year after receiving interest from dancers and their families. The team, made up of 30 dancers between the ages of 11 and 17, began rehearsals in November in preparation for the competition.
Wilson said the dancers performed exceptionally well throughout the multi-day event.
"We had three solo performances and a duet performance on Wednesday, with one of the solos placing second and another placing third, which was very exciting," Wilson said. "On Friday, we had two duets, one placing third and one placing second."
The club wrapped up the competition on Sunday with two large group performances. Their contemporary piece won first place and received the Outstanding Novice Group Award.
Middle Row L to R: Sian Deatherage, Maize de Rook, Maelie Flamme, Olivia Bembridge, Lexus Zieglgansberger, Grace Styre
Back Row L to R: Bella Hammett, Karissa Fee, Saphyra Smart, Ashanti Mirabel, Trinity Massier, Ava Mainprize, Lexxus Paterson, Emmalee Ursu, Brynn Hubick, Alyssa Fraser, Kadence Lohse
Front Row L to R: Fiona Prabhu, Elaina Sliva, Haylee Lohse, Ashlyn Dixon
Middle Row L to R: Thessa Espina, Maelie Flamme, Olivia Bembridge, Lexus Zieglgansberger, Breanna Short, Isla Tribiger
Back Row L to R: Miley Biccum, Kadence Lohse, Sian Deatherage, Alexa Gettis, Ava Juneau, Bella Hammett, Emmalee Ursu, Grace Styre
For most of the dancers, this was their first time competing, making the weekend an exciting experience.
"It was a big learning experience for all of us, but we really enjoyed it," Wilson said. "Getting to be backstage for the first time, feeling the adrenaline, and seeing my students shine was an amazing feeling."
Wilson, who was a competitive dancer herself, said returning to that environment from a coaching perspective was a rewarding experience.
"It felt like going back in time to when I was a student competing in Prince Albert," she said. "Being on the other side of it now, leading the team, rehearsing with the kids, and making sure they were as prepared as possible was very special."
After the club’s successful first competition, Wilson said there is already excitement about competing again in the future.
"One of my dance parents mentioned that we've caught the competition bug," she said. "The girls absolutely loved it. They're already asking what we're doing next year!"
The club is now turning its attention to its ninth annual recital, set for Saturday, April 12. Wilson said both performances have already sold out.
"We are really grateful for all the support from our families," she said. "Our dancers are going to be very excited to perform in front of two full crowds."
Many of the routines performed at the competition will be featured in the recital. With some dancers participating in as many as eight or nine routines, preparation for the event is intensive.
"It's a lot for them, memorizing all the choreography and managing their costume changes, but they do an amazing job," Wilson said. "On my end, it takes a village to put this event together. I’m so grateful to my fellow instructors and the parents who have helped out, whether at the competition or behind the scenes at the recital."