Spalding Academy dancers shine in sold-out show

Over eight weeks the Spalding Academy Dance Troupe worked incredibly hard to learn choreography to 21 different songs ready to perform in the school's sold-out dance show ‘Shimmer and Shine, it’s Summer Time’ which took place over two successive nights in June.

The dance troupe were determined to make this show the best one yet, which meant giving up four lunchtimes a week and between two to three nights after school to rehearse.

In addition, the choir from Spalding Academy and dance friends from Bourne Academy were asked to perform as special guests.

Spalding Academy Dance Troupe tutor Emma Ringrose said: "I was travelling to Bourne Academy every Thursday afternoon to teach them the choreography to 11 dances so they could join in. Mr Barrett worked hard with the school's choir who learnt five different songs which included two soloists."

On Thursday, June 20 the cast had three lessons off-timetable for the final run-through with the proper lighting and sound.

Ms Halifax added: "It was as if something had clicked – I have never seen them perform as well as they did! This made me extremely proud.

"As 3.30pm came around the atmosphere in the dressing room was ecstatic, the Year 9 girls were helping the Year 7 students with their make-up, and being extremely helpful.

"At 7pm, the performers gave every ounce of energy and excitement they had!

"The opening night was a major success and I was incredibly proud of each and every pupil. For some, this was the first time they had ever performed in front of an audience.

"Friday’s show was even better. Next year we will be putting on a Christmas Dance Show to fundraise for next year’s competition."

Ms Halifax gave thanks to every performer, their parents/carers, Darren Maddison and Polkadot Productions for lending their costumes, and Mr Billinghurst for giving up his evenings to perform.