FOR dancers at Richardson Dance Studio, their annual Comp Team Showcase is about more than just dance.
While the dancers are given the opportunity to show the community their award-winning routines, they also get to raise much-needed funds for a charity close to their hearts.
The event will take place at Harrison Hall from 7pm to 8pm on May 26 and will raise money for Dance for Sick Kids, a part of the Ronald McDonald House charities.
Richardson Dance Studio teacher Kaiti Blackmore said the team had seen the work that Ronald McDonald House was able to provide for families.
“We had one of our young dancers pass away from cancer a few years ago,” Ms Blackmore said.
“Her family spent a lot of time at Ronald McDonald House so it’s a charity that is very close to our hearts.”
“Dance for Sick Kids is such a fantastic initiative, and being able to show the community all the work we put into dance while being able to raise money for them is just great.”
Ms Blackmore said the comp team was excited to be able to show the community the routines that they worked so hard to learn and perform.
“These 10 girls are the students who give absolutely everything to dance,” she said.
“These girls live and breathe dance – some of them are dancing more than seven hours a week in our studio.
“For them to be recognised by the community would just be wonderful so we are hoping to see as many people as possible.
“We travel across the state during the year to compete.
“We’ve already attended two competitions this year and have won numerous first places and special awards.
“These girls are really committed to their artform so it’s also a chance for our younger students to see what they are able to achieve if they work really hard.”
At the halfway point of the showcase, primary-school-aged children will be invited to jump onto the stage and compete in an improvisational dance competition with the chance to win prizes.
Ms Blackmore has also invited a special guest performer to inspire students further.
“I’ve organised to bring over a dancer from Echuca,” she said.
“River, who dances at Dillmac Entertainment, has won numerous awards.
“I thought it would be great to have him inspire our male dancers and any males in the community.
“People can buy tickets to the show for just $10.
“You can either do that online through TryBooking or you can turn up on the night and pay cash to enjoy the show.
“The simple fact that people are coming to watch the show and support the girls and the charity is just great.
“Get along and bring the kids
” It’s a really fun way to celebrate dance, and to give back to a fantastic charity.”
