Forest Lake dance studio Allstars Performing Arts students danced their hearts out at two eisteddfods in July, taking home a number of awards and treasured memories.
Allstars eisteddfod teams received 1st place in four dances at the Dance Life Unite competition held on July 23-24 at St John’s Anglican College, along with one 2nd place, one 3rd place, and one “highly commended” award.
At the Quota Beenleigh eisteddfod held at the Logan Entertainment Centre on July 30-31, Allstars teams received three awards for 2nd place and one award for 3rd place.
Allstars Performing Arts owner Katrina Spencer, who runs the studio with her husband and co-owner Greg, said the kids were excited to return to competing after years of Covid lockdowns affected dance eisteddfods.
“They all really enjoyed the excitement of performing and spending time with their friends,” she said.
Mrs Spencer said a lot of fun and team-building took place backstage, including mini dance-parties, a pinata, and team circles where they shared what they hoped to achieve with each other.
Allstars dance teacher Georgia Eadie said both eisteddfods had been nothing short of amazing.
“All of our Allstars students have not only shown kindness and consideration to each teammate and other competitors, but they have been awarded some phenomenal placings against tough competition,” she said.
“Myself and the Allstars team are grateful to be surrounded by hardworking and talented kids everyday.”
Senior dancer Melissa Stewart said it always felt great to dance with her team at Allstars.
“The team is a family, and we all share such a special bond. When we go to competitions we don’t care if we win or lose; we do it for the fun and enjoyment.”
Allstars acrobatics teacher Julie Pilon said the students performed really well and displayed incredible teamwork both on and off stage.
“In fact, many of our proudest moments as teachers were behind the scenes,” she said. “The students went above and beyond in showing support for each other and great sportsmanship for those around them.”
Senior dancer Ashlea Jade said she especially enjoyed performing the acrobatics piece “Trip A Little Light Fantastic” choreographed by Miss Julie.
“It was really fun to be able to showcase all our acro skills,” she said. “Performing together is a great way to strengthen the friendships in our team – it’s an awesome bonding experience.”
Senior dancer Layla Pilon said her favourite dance to perform in was their jazz dance “Salute” choreographed by Miss Georgia.
“We had so much energy onstage and the rest of our team in the audience cheering enthusiastically really made us feel unstoppable,” she said.
Allstars dance teacher Elly Hofenk said she was incredibly proud of how far the dancers had come this year.
“They are always achieving great things, and to come away with so many places warms my heart,” she said.
Later this year, Allstars Performing Arts will perform at the Grand Avenue fete, the Forest Lake Community Festival, and the Forest Lake Community Christmas Carols events.
They will also be performing Frozen the Musical as part of their end-of-year concert on Saturday December 10.
To find out more about Allstars’ upcoming shows visit them on Facebook, Instagram or on their website.
