Performing on a big stage with bright lights shining down on you in your gorgeous costume is an indescribable experience. The majority of our students work hard in class all year, nine months of practice, to perform for just one weekend in May. We are excited to give the majority of our youth students another opportunity to perform, and here's why.
- Performing helps build self confidence. It helps build a sense of accomplishment in dancers and proves that their hard work pays off. Dancer's self esteem builds when they have finished the dance and the audience is proud of them.
- The rehearsal process is a tremendous learning experience. In rehearsal, students have to learn precise choreography. They have to remember where to look, what to do with their arms and legs, and to use their technique, all while smiling! Dancers also have to remember the choreography they learned from one rehearsal to the next, and be able to perform without the help of a mirror or a dance teacher. Working with their classmates on a group performance helps build a sense of team work.
- Dedication to the performance helps build a sense of responsibility. Some performance commitments are larger than others, but all performance commitments require responsibility from the dancer. Dancers have to be on time for rehearsals and performances. They also have to remember to pack all of their costume pieces, shoes, tights, and make up.
SIDEWAYS' Contemporary Dance Company's “Once Upon A Holiday” has always been a fun tradition for ADC, as several faculty members perform in the show. In the past, students could only participate if they auditioned. A small cast resulted in a very large commitment from cast members. This year, we've decided to spread the love of performance with the majority of our youth students at ADC!
Youth students in eligible classes have been invited to perform in Once Upon A Holiday with limited extra commitment. Students will be learning the dances as a fun combination during the last ten minutes of their classes. All students in participating classes will be able to benefit from the rehearsal process! While performing in the show is optional, we hope to have as many students join us as possible. With participation from faculty, ART company members, youth students, and pre-show performances from the Foster-Schmidt Dance Company, we truly believe that Once Upon A Holiday will tie the ADC family together, getting everyone in the mood for the holidays.