So you think you can dance

Heading into a season of stiff competition, the students of Renee’s Dance Connection took time out Sunday afternoon to show parents, family, friends and the general public how well the hours upon hours of rehearsal time paid off.

The dancers not only showcased styles of dance including Musical Theatre, Jazz, Tap, Hip-Hop, and lyrical on the Nipissing University stage, but at the same time demonstrated that they have what it takes to compete.

Dance instructor Renee Chayer says getting ready for competition is much different than regular lessons and she marvels at the dedication of her students.

“The dancers work three to four days a week,” she explains.

“We’ve rented a stage from up here and they got a chance to practise on the stage to get ready.”

Chayer says not every student reaches the competition level in dance, and while it is time consuming for the students and instructors to pull the competition pieces together, without the support of family it just couldn’t happen.

“Not only the dancers but the parent’s commitment is very appreciated and it helps,” she states.

“It’s nice seeing the potential in dancers and seeing the go further with it.”