When every theater in America went dark for safety, we were still determined to hold a recital. Recital is SUCH an important part of dance education. It promotes confidence, celebrates the student’s achievements throughout the year, & is of course an annual tradition. Skipping a year of recital was NOT an option.
So we transformed our dance studio into our own personal theater, with seating for 4.
Students could sign up for an individual recital & perform their dance for their family. Smiles were beaming through everyone’s masks.
It turned out to be a super special & intimate event & is now included in our regular studio activities.
One dancer, Hannah, was very hesitant to perform. It takes much more bravery to do a solo! And I was a little concerned that she was going to be too overwhelmed. Hannah had a huge audience: Some people just showed up to stand outside the studio & cheer since our audience was limited. Everyone was holding their breath & sending her courage through osmosis. And suddenly . . . a huge smile spread across her face & she relaxed. She lit up the stage & performed with so much energy & emotion.
I was practically in tears at the end of her performance because I felt how much everyone – her family & the ADC teachers – wanted this wonderful experience for her . .. AND she did it!
Our individual recitals were a great way for us to get to know our ADC Families better & to fall in love with our students even more.
PS – We let lovely Hannah perform 2xs that day to a sold out show each time. No Grandpa left behind! 🙂