The Collins Hall was at capacity as friends, family and others took in the annual dance showcase featuring the company dancers from DanceWorks.
The event was organized by the North Shore Parents’ Association of Dance with the goal of raising money to cover the entry costs for DanceWorks students going to three upcoming competitions in St. Catharines in April, North Bay in early May and Guelph in late May.
“The March Showcase is the fundraiser we do every March for our competitive team. This showcases dancers from DanceWorks (38 members in the competitive team),” said DanceWorks owner, director and teacher Christine Brunet. “All proceeds will be donated to our group to assist in entry fees for competitions, approximately $30,000 were our fees for this year for the out-of-town competitions.”
Brunet thanked the association for organizing the event and for dance supporters, volunteers and sponsors. About 300 tickets were sold for Saturday evening’s show.
“As a not-for-profit, our goal is to promote competitive dance affordable for all families and provide fundraising opportunities to raise funds for competition expenses,” said Allison Byles association president. “This amazing night of talent features the competitive dancers with DanceWorks studio in Elliot Lake. Our dancers are excited to showcase their talents in front of their hometown crowd.”
That excitement wasn’t missed by Saturday’s crowd who enjoyed the group and solo dance performances acknowledging each with applause and cheers.
Routines included tap, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, ballet, hip hop and acrobatics.
DanceWorks has approximately 185 to 200 students and operates the studio in Elliot Lake and recently opened classes in Blind River.