A group of 19 dancers from Lethbridge’s Joys Dance Factory are excited to be performing with Canada’s best-selling music group for kids, the Mini Pop Kids. This opportunity allows the young dancers to experience performing on stage with professionals in a major production, which is a significant step beyond their usual dance recitals. The music chosen for the production has been redone for younger children, creating a positive and enjoyable experience for the dancers. Owner and teacher Joy Ackerman believes that this experience will not only be fun for the students but also offer them valuable learning opportunities.
High school student Ella Richards, one of the performers in the production, also played a role in mentoring the younger dancers. She sees this opportunity as a rare and exciting experience, especially for young dancers looking to pursue a career in dance. Working under the pressures of learning choreography quickly and performing with the Mini Pop Kids can provide valuable experience for those interested in pursuing dance professionally. The selection process for the performance began in January with auditions, followed by weekly rehearsals to prepare for the upcoming shows at the Yates Memorial Centre.
The performances are set to take place on Thursday, with one at 2 p.m. and another at 6 p.m. Tickets are still available but limited for those who wish to attend and support the young dancers from Joys Dance Factory. The experience of performing with the Mini Pop Kids not only allows the dancers to showcase their skills and talents but also gives them a unique opportunity to gain valuable experience and insight into the world of professional dance. The production has provided both the young dancers and their mentor, Ella Richards, with a chance to see things from a different perspective, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges and rewards of teaching and learning dance.
For Joy Ackerman, the owner and teacher of Joys Dance Factory, seeing her students perform with the Mini Pop Kids is a source of joy and pride. The positive experience of performing with the popular music group is not only a fun opportunity for the young dancers but also a significant learning experience. This performance serves as a testament to the hard work and dedication of the dancers, who have been rehearsing diligently to prepare for the shows. The opportunity to perform with professionals in a major production can provide young dancers with valuable skills and knowledge that can potentially lead to future opportunities in the world of dance.
Overall, the collaboration between Joys Dance Factory and the Mini Pop Kids offers a unique and exciting opportunity for the young dancers to showcase their talent and passion for dance. The experience of performing on stage with professionals in a major production can be a transformative and rewarding experience for the students, providing them with valuable lessons and insights into the world of dance. The hard work and dedication put into preparing for the performances will surely pay off as the dancers take the stage with confidence and joy. This experience not only highlights the talent of the young dancers but also underscores the importance of mentorship and learning opportunities in the world of dance.
