All eyes were on local students of The Dance Zone School of Dancing when they won 20 first place trophies and nine second and third place Honorable Mentions for their jazz, tap, ballet, and lyrical numbers at the Minneapolis competition of "I Love Dance" held at the Crown Plaza on May 15.
"My Boyfriends Back" was awarded the Overall Highest Score in the Elementary Category for their jazz routine. Dancers were Carter Sorenson, Ashley Heggs, Autumn Lang, Morgan King, Janelle Pouliot and Rylee Chapman, all Weyburn students.
Paris Lyon received all three "High Mark Overall" awards in the junior category. Paris has been studying at the Dance Zone for seven years and was among 37 dancers from the studio who entered the "I Love Dance" Minneapolis Competition.
The International Director of "I Love Dance," Kim McKimmie, was very enthusiastic in her praise for these young dancers and the talent they displayed. "The hard work and hours of rehearsal are obvious," said McKimmie. "I'm sure the parents and local communities are very proud of these extraordinary dancers' accomplishments at "I Love Dance." I applaud the dance teachers, Tammy and Jenni, and feel confident that their efforts will result in further excellence in their future performances."
Studio Director/Instructor Tammy Lawrence-Bhimji and Senior Instructor Jennifer Dunne were also awarded the "Excellence Award" for outstanding achievement, in recognition of all performances. Lawrence- Bhimji said that she was very proud of all the dancers and the hard work they put into preparing for such a large and distinguished competition. Fifty-two dancers, parents and chaperones attended the four-day trip.
"I Love Dance" has been presenting its dance festivals and conventions for 33 years, wherein young students of ballet, jazz, tap, musical theatre, and variety arts are given the opportunity to have their work seen and evaluated by qualified, professional and celebrity judges.
"I Love Dance" competitions are held from coast to coast throughout North America and in Australia.
