Ladner’s Studio West Dance is returning to in-person competitions, and though the pre-performance jitters are in full effect, students and staff are embracing the nerves after a two-year hiatus.
The studio held a preview performance for its competitive dancers at the Genesis Theatre a couple of weekends ago in preparation, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the audience of family members, according to Studio West owner/director Jyla Robinson.
“The parents, they were just blown away. They were blown away with the creativity of the teachers and how much their children have grown over the last two years because they really haven’t seen them dance, either,” said Robinson. “They finally got to watch them dance on stage for the first time in two years.”
The performance, though there were a few giggle-worthy hiccups along the way, was magical, she said.
Dancers were back in their elaborate costumes, back on the stage with bright lights beaming down on them – and most importantly, there were people watching and cheering them on in the audience, live and in-person, added Robinson.
Robinson says the theatre was filled with happiness and an unmistakable feeling of hope.
“It was emotional. For me, and the teachers and especially the dancers that have been with us for quite a few years, this is our passion, it’s our life, it’s our livelihood ... If it wasn’t for the competitive kids who live, sleep, eat and breathe dance, we probably wouldn’t have a studio anymore,” she says.
This week, the studio will be competing in-person for the first time in two years, with several more competitions planned for the future in addition to some in-person performances.
It’s a welcome change for both the dancers and staff after having to compete virtually last year, which involved recording performances and sending them off to be judged.
“The kids never got that gratification of an audience. They did [these virtual competitions] – they got into costume and they did their routines – but there was nobody there watching, so, the dancers are – or, we all are – pretty excited to get back into it,” says Robinson.
Robinson offered thanks to her teaching staff and all the parents and kids who continued to believe in the value of dance – even if it was facilitated in a different way – throughout the pandemic.
And for those interested in coming out to Studio West Dance’s upcoming performance of High School Musical 2 on April 1 and 2 at the Genesis Theatre, tickets will be available on their website and through social media later in March.
To stay up to date with Studio West Dance, check out their Instagram at @studiowestdance, their Facebook and their website at http://www.studiowestdance.ca/.
