For many of the students, this was the first chance they had had to perform for a live audience since the COVID pandemic – and they all rose to the task, performing their socks off.
The sold-out event featured a huge variety of dance styles ranging from ballet to hip hop, from lyrical to tap and from commercial to musical theatre.
Theatre Manager David Cooper said: “I was blown away by this event; to see so many talented performers taking to the stage and really giving it their all was inspiring. Their enthusiasm, their determination, their talent – it really was dancing turned up to 11! We had so many styles of dancing, I couldn’t begin to count them, but the event beautifully showcased our ethos, as there really was something for everyone. It was amazing to have so many local schools sharing this experience together. Strictly Come Dancing – eat your heart out!”
Darren Massey, Principal of Step To It Academy said: “The showcase was such a wonderful opportunity for our students. Being back on stage performing to a packed audience was a fantastic experience. Our students loved it.”
Sarah Cole from Chantrain School of Dance said: “The dancers had the time of their lives, and I’m so incredibly grateful to [The Elgiva] for giving them this opportunity. They loved every minute of it from start to finish, the excitement in the dressing room, watching all the other dance schools and having the chance to grace the stage themselves.”
The event was the first of its kind for the theatre, but following the huge sold-out success, The Elgiva is delighted to announce this will now be a regular event!
Dance and theatre schools who took part (in alphabetical order):
Bovingdon Dance Academy
Chantraine School of Dance
Chiltern Academy School of Performing Arts
Claire Andrews Dance Academy
Hemel Hempstead Theatretrain
Jackie Palmer Academy
JSDA
Maggie Monk School of Dancing
Nanfans Ballet School
Ondine Academy of Dance
Sargent and Plester School of Dance
Step To It
Trinity Theatre Arts
Can’t wait to see you all again next year!
