A local dance troupe is preparing to test their skills at Disney California Adventure Park next month.
On July 8, 15 girls from St. Albert’s Zero Gravity Dance, will bring a mix of dances to the theme park’s audience. To get ready, they are now performing at seniors’ homes in the community.
“I wanted the kids to do it because there is definitely a good opportunity for them to perform and it’s a good experience,” said Odessa Wowk, choreographer and owner of Zero Gravity Dance.
Wowk said the group learned that they were going to Disneyland in late September of last year. The 10- to 13-year-old girls went through an audition process and sent in a video after which they were chosen.
Wowk does not know whether other dance groups in the area are also invited but said Disneyland brings in a number of schools and bands to perform at the park.
Once the group arrives, the girls will participate in four workshops with the Disney directors – the group that plans the parades – and perform for the public.
Wowk said they planned for a half-hour show with eight dances. The girls will perform a range of styles from jazz to lyrical, tap and ballet.
The final number incorporates the whole group dancing to A Night at the Roxbury.
That’s also the favourite dance of 13-year-old Alyssa Bokenfohr.
“I am very excited,” she said. “I like performing for people and the learning experience.”
Bokenfohr has been with Zero Gravity Dance for two years and has danced for a total of seven years. She said she enjoyed the practice sessions at the seniors’ homes because the people love their performance and often thank them for it.
“It’s good for the kids to do, giving back to their community which I think is really important,” added Wowk.
“It’s more for performance and the love of dance rather than just doing it because they are winning something. “
Wowk hopes to take the girls to dance at Disneyworld in Florida in two years. Until then, she hopes the Disneyland guests will enjoy their performance.
