Dance

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photography

We rarely think about all the work and energy that goes into a dance production such as Stars of Tomorrow, presented by The Arbutus Academy of Dance on Sunday May 1, 2022 at the Michael J Fox Theatre. Presenting a show of this quality requires collaborative effort with many people in a variety of roles and responsibilities. Planning and organizing a dance performance can truly be overwhelming and exhausting. However, under the expert guidance of the Director of Dance, Marlene Hershfield, her team of dance instructors make it look easy. In order to continue supporting amazing dance performances the Club's Dance department conducts well thought-out planning, collaboration, conversations, while implementing careful timing and scheduling of lessons and rehearsals. After changing into their gorgeous costumes, the dancers use the short amount of time before the show to run through the choreography, nailing down their spacing and rehearsing under the stage lights. In those final moments right before the curtain goes up and the dancers glide across the stage, each performer and dance teacher takes a deep breath – knowing all of the hard work that went into being able to share the stage once again. As the audience take their seats, the theatre lights go dim and a collective hush fills the air as they wait for the curtains to go up. The audience is ready for the performance and give their complete attention to the stage.

Watching the Stars of Tomorrow is an exhilarating experience for the audience and an incredibly rewarding opportunity for the dancers and their teachers who have been choreographing, rehearsing routines and moving in dance for countless hours

Many of The Arbutus Academy of Dance graduating students started when they were just toddlers at 3 or 4 years old. Members of the dance community have had the privilege to watch these students grow and succeed within the dance program. The Stars of Tomorrow show on Sunday, May 1 was the final performance for five incredible young dancers who are graduating from the program. These dancers seem to glide effortlessly but learning how to dance like they do is both physically and mentally demanding. So, what keeps the Club's many dancers going? "Definitely having patience and knowing there is a goal. But, what really keeps me going is my love for dance," Sofia Cicci explains. Marlene Hershfield recognizes a love of learning, integrity and tenacity in her graduating students that allows them to achieve their goals, and reach great heights within the dance program.

- sofia cicci, graduating dancer

Dance teachers can't help but embrace these kind and compassionate students who work hard and diligently, by staying involved, being trustworthy, and committed individuals, while helping to motivate others. Graduating dance students Shoshana Pollock, Sofia Cicci, Georgia Verchere-Gopaulsingh, Celia Gustafson, and Sofia Wind all possess these incredible characteristics and qualities.

When asked what their favourite part of participating in the dance program has been, one of the graduating students explains that The Arbutus Academy of Dance is an accepting and kind environment – one that supports and encourages personal growth. Sofia Wind explains that it was this level of support that encouraged her to volunteer as a dance assistant leading eventually to her becoming a substitute teacher.

- sofia wind, graduating dancer

The dance program at the Club offers many different styles of dance including a strong Ballet program, Hip Hop, Tap, Musical Theatre, Jazz, Acro, and Contemporary dance. All students are welcome. The talent and variety presented during the Stars of Tomorrow performance was fabulous. Covering such an array of different genres of dance, the performance was a breathtaking and uplifting afternoon of amazing choreography and wonderful dancing. The audience was guided seamlessly through the show like an adventure, bringing a story to each dance and leaving the audience wanting more. It was also clear to see how much every student who took part in the show was enjoying it. As one graduating student described, "the feeling of the stage lights, with the beautiful costumes, and the audience attention makes all the hard work worth it."

The dance program has a reputation for being a supportive environment "where everybody wants to do what's best for you," assures graduate student Shoshana Pollock. "I would not be who I am today without the love and support from my friends and teachers." The dance teachers are known for their level of care and ability to listen to what each dancer needs. Graduate student Sofia Wind admits that the dance program has inspired her to stay committed.

- shoshana pollock, graduating dancer

Dance is a passion and The Arbutus Academy of Dance students know that believing in yourself, having patience, and understanding that progress takes time is the correct approach. They also know that you have to put in a lot of hard work in order to see results.

Marlene Hershfield chooses to work with dance teachers who share her vision for the program and help to make the dance department a positive environment for growth. She looks for a high standard of excellence from her teachers and is able to recognize it in their work and in their ethics effecting how they make decisions and lead. As the Director of Dance, Marlene looks for individuals who have had a lot of experience dancing and teaching, those with passion and commitment, with the ability to encourage these qualities in their students.

Ms Marlene trusts her instincts and knows when someone is a good fit. An uplifting style, an energetic individual, someone who chooses the music carefully promoting a fun, safe and happy environment are winning qualities for a dance teacher at the Club.

A good dance teacher will quickly win their students over, inspiring and fostering a pure love for the art form. After all, it's this love that is at the heart of dance.

- shoshana pollock, graduating dancer

- sofia cicci, graduating dancer