One of the great pleasures of life, dancing can be enjoyed at every age. Hence the idea behind Still Dancing, a local company offering anyone a chance to participate in a choreographed show, no matter what age.
After rehearsing for nine months, the talent will be on display at their Circus performance, Saturday (June 12) at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Brennan Park Recreation Centre.
Presenting scenes of ballet and jazz, tap and streetjazz, students as young as three years old and others in their 60s will showcase what they've learned with a big top-inspired production.
"They've learnt their dancing, they're very excited and ready to perform this for an audience," said instructor Debbie Vidas.
"I'm excited for the children - this is their chance to showcase what they've worked on all year long."
With more than 180 dancers performing, Vidas and Runnels had to come up with ways to incorporate everyone.
"One class is a circus crew, most of the little guys are going to be sea lions and hot dogs, some will be cotton candy or popcorn, and then of course there's magicians and clowns and the list goes on and on," said Vidas.
A dress rehearsal for family will be held at the Brennan Park Recreation Centre on June 7, where the typical packed house helps newer dancers get comfortable before the big day.
The Still Dancing program, which started 11 years ago with only a few students, has grown rapidly with instructors Vidas and Jane Runnals now running 25 classes weekly.
The annual recital relies equally on the students' passion for dancing as it does on active contributions from parents and volunteers.
The year-end recital is their main production, although several classes perform smaller dance shows throughout the year at events like the Seniors Centre Christmas celebration.
Planning for the year-end recital begins right in September when Vidas and Runnels begin brainstorming. Once ideas are bounced around, they start honing the show.
"After Christmas, we find out how many children are going to be involved and have committed to wanting to do the show," said Vidas. "Then we start shopping for materials and everything else to make the costumes."
Volunteers help direct lighting, backdrops and music so the students can dance their hearts out in front of a large audience.
Vidas moved to Squamish 32 years ago. She grew up dancing, and considers herself lucky to spend her days teaching others about her love and passion.
"For me, this is not a job, this is the joy of going to work every day. It's not very often that people find something they truly love and they can do every day."
Many of her students have gone on to make dance their career of choice as well, whether it's in teaching or performing.
She encourages anyone of any age to come out and try dancing, even if they've never done it before.
"You do not need any dancing experience," said Vidas. "It's about coming and learning the joy of dance and sharing that. There's no experience necessary, only desire.
"We even have a few adults who are dancing for the first time in their lives."
Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for students and seniors. They can be purchased at Lucky Loonies, the Bookshelf, the Anglican Church and at the door on the day of.
