The King's Courts

A New Year

2012-01-19T09:27:00.002-06:00

A new year is in full swing. Dance classes started back on January 9th with some new students enrolled, bringing this semester's total to 84 girls. Eighty-four lives that I'm privileged to touch and work with on a weekly basis. The number can be daunting, but 7 of my oldest girls help out with various classes, making my job less stressful. As always, it's a joy to see my older students continuing to progress, and a joy to see the younger ones discovering more of ballet.

There are definite challenges, and tiring days full of details. First I mapped out the dates for the spring and get everything printed to hand out. Then, I ordered costumes ($2500 worth!), making sure I got everyone measured and sized correctly. Having the moms come in on the first day of class to measure helped this go quickly. Through it all, and even before classes started, I've been working on choreography. So far I have 9 full and 2 half songs choreographed, bringing me half-way to the 20 total song goal.

"Unchanging" is the theme of this spring's ballet presentation, set for May 11 & 12. We'll be celebrating our Savior and each song extols different attributes of God. From lace parasols to a dad & daughter dance, I'm excited at the diversity and sweetness this one will hold.

"Captive Faith" is, Lord willing, the summer musical I'll be directing. It's the story of Naaman, with a special focus on the Israelite slave girl that was captured and served his family. It's also one I'm writing, which was a step of faith in itself, with the busy days this semester holds. But, by God's grace, I was able to complete the first draft on January 7th, just in time before dance classes started back!

Things are finally settling into somewhat of a routine for dance, so I hope to start editing the script soon. It will be a long road of typing things in, editing, typing more, and editing again. But, it's always exciting to see a script take shape. A dear friend and student is composing music, as well as my talented brother-in-law (to share the work load), so I'm excited to see how the songs will turn out as well.

I'm not sure what this year will hold for The King's Courts, beyond the two planned productions, and even those are in God's hands - only through Him will they take shape. Of course, I already have ideas for next Christmas, but nothing concrete. :)

God continues to teach me to trust Him through each year, each semester, each production. There are new challenges, but He's always shown Himself so faithful.

I am battling some tiredness this month, as the workload continues to increase. So, I'm hoping to adjust to a good schedule, and take some time for personal projects and "down time" so as to not burn out on production work. God continues to give many opportunities, and I'm seeking Him for wisdom in how to face each one.

May God be glorified through The King's Courts in 2012!

Photo album of "The Coming King"

2011-12-29T11:12:00.001-06:00

An album of pictures from "The Coming King" has been created. Click here to see the pictures that tell the story of the presentation.

The Coming King

"Unchanging" Presentation Poll

2011-12-29T10:57:00.002-06:00

For parents of students in The King's Praise Ballet:

Last year I heard from some parents that they would enjoy having two presentations for the spring presentation, like we do for the Christmas presentation. After all, you buy costumes and the girls work hard learning their dances, so we get to use all of that more if we present twice instead of once.

However, I also know that the spring is a busy time, with many recitals and trips, and I don't want to overload your calendar.

Please vote in the poll below.

Right now I'm planning two presentations of "Unchanging" (the spring recital celebrating the attributes of God) but if the majority shows you would prefer one, then I can go with that.

Feel free to clarify your vote or add any comments you have in the comments section of this post.

Thanks for your vote!

Stuck with Sheep

2011-12-17T21:54:00.002-06:00

"Were stuck here with a thousand sheep!"

Picture credit: Robyn Clement

Flying shepherd

2011-12-17T21:52:00.003-06:00

These shepherds were fun to work with. They came up with more daring stunts than I would have dreamed of, and Ben survived without ever breaking a bone! :)

Picture credit: Robyn Clement

"You're Here"

2011-12-17T21:52:00.001-06:00

"You're here!"

Picture credit: Robyn Clement

Heart Sisters

2011-12-17T21:51:00.001-06:00

It was fun seeing these girls be "big sisters" to little 4 year olds, when a mere 4 years ago THEY were the little ones!

Picture credit: Robyn Clement

Slidshow of "The Coming King"

2011-12-17T12:31:00.002-06:00

Below is the slideshow I made to play at the beginning of "The Coming King" presentations. I had a few great photographers! Enjoy seeing a glimpse of the ballet through pictures.

"To worship Him"

2011-12-16T09:45:00.002-06:00

"We have come to worship Him"

Photo credit: Dieter Spears

"What can I give Him?"

2011-12-15T22:15:00.001-06:00

"What can I give Him?"

"I'll give Him my heart!"

Dad & Daughter Duet

2011-12-15T21:58:00.000-06:00

"He would tell them of His kingdom..."

"When love was born"

2011-12-15T21:52:00.000-06:00

"Close my eyes and see the night when love was born..."

A cradle...

2011-12-15T21:51:00.000-06:00

"A mother tonight is rocking a cradle in Bethlehem..."

Sheep and Shepherds

2011-12-15T21:35:00.000-06:00

The girls make the cutest sheep!

These guys make some crazy shepherds!

Come Friday at 7 PM or Saturday at 4 PM to see them for yourself!

Cast of "The Coming King"

2011-12-15T21:30:00.001-06:00

The cast of "The Coming King" - after teaching them in small group classes all year, it's fun, and a bit overwhelming, to see them all together. God has truly blessed The King's Praise Ballet!

Dress rehearsal went well this afternoon. It's always a little crazy getting everyone together for the first time, but I had a great crew and lots of helpers!

"The Coming King" at Charlton Place

2011-12-09T10:17:00.007-06:00

7 of my 10 classes danced at Charlton Place (nursing home) on Thursday, December 8th. It was a joy to see the girls sharing the gift of dance for the glory of God! The residents and workers really seemed to enjoy it as well.

Enjoy the pictures - a sneak peak of what you'll see if you come to "The Coming King" next weekend!

A dance taken from the prophecies of Isaiah, Micah, and Jeremiah

"Perfect child gently wakes..."

"When love was born."

"Carol of the Bells" - swirls of gold and white!

There's always a lot of action in this song!

"And peace on earth good will to men!"

"I don't know what to say when I look in Your eyes..."

"Behold a manger is His throne"

"Born is the King of Israel!"

"A mother tonight is rocking a cradle in Bethlehem..."

"God with us..."

"Emmanuel abides with us!"

"What can I give Him..."

"All of my heart!"

"What can we offer that's fit for a King?"

"But the sadness would be broken as the song of life arose"

In lieu of the finale (which we need all the dancers and a LOT of space for!) we sang "Joy to the World" and invited the audience to sing along.

One presentation down, three to go - first on Monday at another nursing home, then presentations at Hunter Hills Church next Friday & Saturday (16th & 17th).

Please pray that dancers will stay well (there's sickness going around!) and that all the final details will come together for God's glory!

Thankful for Ballet

2011-11-18T09:51:00.003-06:00

This week, the week before Thanksgiving, I asked the girls what they were thankful for. Some classes I asked for anything, some classes I had fun asking what specific ballet movement they were thankful for. But for Ballet III, I decided to do something different, and ask what aspect of ballet they were thankful for. Their thoughtful replies encouraged me.

"I'm thankful for a time to be with friends."

It's been fun to see many friendships develop as a result of ballet classes. Some people join because their friends are taking (and then stay because they enjoy it so much!), but many become friends through the class. I don't allow much talking in class, but they take advantage of time before and after. There's also something special that happens when you dance with someone, especially for a few years. As you learn to move together, to move as one person, you get attuned to the other members of the class, as you match your movements to theirs. This draws you together in a special bond of friendship as well.

The Godly, encouraging friendships developing between the girls of The King's Praise Ballet are beautiful. To see them encourage and support each other in and out of class is truly a blessing.

"I'm thankful for the opportunity to praise God with dance."

My students usually start taking classes because they want to learn to dance - a logical reason. However, especially in the older ones, I've seen the reason that we dance - to praise God - truly taking root in their hearts. It comes out in their movement. They're not just going through the motions of ballet. Their hearts are using the movement to bring Him praise, and there's a noticeable difference. God is raising up worshipers of Him in girls from 4 to 17. It's a beautiful thing.

"I'm thankful for the way we get to move to the music."

It's such fun to listen to a song and get the movements to match the music. The way the two intertwine and complement each other is a lovely thing. As the girls progress, their musicality also develops, and I can see them listening and fitting the movements to match each different beat or music style. It's rewarding to see them truly dancing!

"I'm thankful that your focus for us is not to glorify our bodies, but to glorify God."

The world of dance can be a difficult one for young ladies. You spend hours watching yourself in the mirror, trying to correct all of your mistakes, and it's very easy to get self-focused. The amount of eating disorders among dancers is also sobering, as they strive to have the perfect body and compare themselves to each other.

But our focus is to praise God with dance - not push everyone to have the perfect, same size body. The girls I teach are all shapes and sizes, and yet they learn to move together, and the diversity is beautiful.

It was rewarding to see this student (who has taken from me for 4 years now!) recognize this. Her heart is fixed on glorifying God through dance, and that comes out in the way that she dances.

"I'm thankful that we get to move in a way that most people don't."

Ballet isn't natural - I tell my students that a lot. The way we hold our back and head, and turnout our legs isn't something people just naturally do. But, as you master the art, it's fun and rewarding. It's hard, but it's exhilarating. As dancers, we get to experience movement in a way that the majority of people never experience.

"I'm thankful for you - a kind teacher!"

That, of course, warmed my heart. :) I strive to teach in a positive way - not yelling or threatening or pushing, but gently encouraging the girls to do their personal best for God's glory. They respond to this encouragement, pressing on even when it's hard. It's rewarding to see them progress, and to see their absolute joy in it.

It's a blessing to not just count them as students, but as friends. They have respect for me, but they aren't afraid of me. Their hugs, smiles, cards, words of encouragement, and the way they dance for the Lord are all very rewarding for me.

Thank you, Lord, for this art of ballet, for allowing me to dance for You, and to pass that joy on to so many girls.

Choreography Complete!

2011-11-09T09:38:00.005-06:00

Yesterday I completed the choreography for "The Coming King!" With 5 weeks until the presentation, it's good timing, too! With 17 dances total, it has been a long but fun process.

My solo was the last one I choreographed. I am portraying Mary, and dancing to "You're Here" by Francesca Battistelli. Most of the song I have a baby doll in my arms, and it can be a challenge to try to bring to life the tender love of a mother for her new child, when the child is a stiff doll and you've never been a mother yourself.

I'm no stranger to dancing with baby dolls, though. The picture above is from 2009, when I portrayed the prophetess Anna, dancing with joy with the Savior in her arms.

God truly gave grace and creativity as my solo just flowed out. It's always amazing to see God work in bringing a new dance together. We serve an awesome King!

I must admit, though, at 21 it feels a bit strange to dance around the room with a baby doll, especially if a student or parent happens to be watching. :)

Now, to practice myself, oversee my student's practice, and continue to pray that God uses "The Coming King" for His glory!

Of Bloomers and Bows

2011-11-04T09:20:00.002-05:00

Costuming "The Coming King" proved to be a big task, with the increase of students. I also have less time year to work at home on my own this year, so I scheduled a workday last Friday with my oldest class, Ballet IV. A dance mom also saw my post on Facebook about the day, and offered to bring her daughters and come.

Everyone worked hard, and we made great progress. All-in-all, we made 10 angel shirts, 17 sparkly headbands, 8 silver headpieces, 18 scrunchies, 8 bow headbands, 10 lamb headbands, decorated 10 sunglasses, and started 4 slips and 10 bloomers.

The bloomers ended up taking the longest. I was able to work more over the weekend, with my sister helping thread elastic through the waistband and knee ruffles. Tying 20 little pink bows was fun, and hand sewing as I watched movies with the family made the time go quickly.

The ensemble turned out very cute for my little lamb dancers. :)

Fun Ballet Attire (Thursday)

2011-10-21T09:56:00.002-05:00

Final day of "Fun ballet attire" for the fall was yesterday!

Ballet IV

Taking two days/week now, they were happy to be able to wear fun ballet again!

The girls got this idea of a pose a while ago, and decided to try it out. They come up with creative ideas and make class fun!

It's a cool class. :)

Actually, they're wearing these glasses for one of their angel dances. I know, angles in sunglasses?? You'll have to come to "The Coming King" to see where it fits. ;)

Ballet I/A with Miss Rachael

I've taught many of these girls since they were 4 or 5, and now at ages 8-10, it's fun to see how they're really improving and growing in ballet this year!

Ballet III

These girls are working hard with the challenges I continue to give them in their dances this year!

Fun Ballet Attire (Tuesday)

2011-10-20T11:18:00.003-05:00

Four classes on Tuesday came up with fun and creative looks! :)

Ballet II
(one girl was gone)

Basic 2 with Miss Katherine

(My niece Sara was here on fall break, so she came to this class for fun!)

Wee 1 with Miss Miriam
(one girl was gone, and one was visiting from Wee 3)

How much "poof" can you get in one class? :)

Ballet IV

Fun Ballet Attire (Monday)

2011-10-17T19:29:00.004-05:00

For class, girls are required to wear black leos & skirts, pink tights & ballet shoes. It helps keep things professional and not distracting.

However, once/semester, we have "fun ballet attire day" and the girls get to dress up for class! It's fun to see what they choose! :)

Wee 3
(one girl was gone)

They all chose something to wear from my supply, and evidently purple and red were the favorite colors of this class!

Basic 1 with Miss Rachael
(one girl was gone)

This class is a challenge, with beginners from age 5 through 11. But, they're doing well and it's fun to see them learning ballet for the first time. My assistants for the class (Rachael and Jubilee switch off each week) are very helpful!

Wee 2 with Miss Anna

(three girls were gone)

At this age, most every little one wants to be a princess and/or ballerina. :) With 10 girls ages 5-6 in the class, they can be a handful (Jubilee/Rachael are again invaluable assistants!) but they're also sweet and exuberant in their enjoyment of dance.

Ballet I/B
(two girls were gone)

This class had a dance party before class, made cookies and crafts (and brought me some!) and got dressed up together. It's fun to see students becoming fast friends with their classmates!

It will be fun to see what the classes come up with on Tuesday and Thursday! :)

Choreography for "The Coming King"

2011-10-12T10:34:00.002-05:00

Preparing for a dance presentation is always a long process. The students enjoy learning their dance, but before I can teach them there's a lot of work to do on my own.

First, finding the right music is essential. It often starts the year before, as all songs I hear that I like after one presentation get put on a list as potentials for the next year. For Christmas presentations such as "The Coming King," I have to be intentional about listening to Christmas music long before the season arrives. This year, I started in April, listening to Christmas music on and off (much to my sister's amusement - there's nothing like hearing "Carol of the Bells" while it's 98 degrees outside!) over the summer. In August I got serious and narrowed the songs down to what I was actually going to use, and chose a name that fit the theme.

Then, I play the songs over and over and over, getting a feel for them, learning them intimately. I listen while I clean, cook, wash dishes, sew - whenever there's a time I can two things at once. As I listen, I get ideas for different steps, formations, or an overall feel for each dance. This makes the choreography process a lot easier.

In the week before classes began, I made the final decisions about which class was dancing to which song(s) and decided what they'd wear. After all, the costume makes a difference in the choreography. If the skirt is full and fun and twirly, for example, that class often does more spins, and different colored costumes play into formations.

Then, I start choreographing. I'm always amazed at the creativity God continues to give. I've choreographed over 100 dances since I started teaching and directing, and yet new ideas continue to flow. Sometimes it's a hard process, and I have to try different things before I find a movement I like. Usually, however, it just flows out naturally. It's fun to see God at work, bringing His story to life through dance.

There are 17 total songs for "The Coming King" and so far I've completed choreography for 12 of them, so the end is in sight! The students are learning their dances well, which is good, since my goal is to have the class dances taught by the parent observation days the first week of November.

I'm really excited about "The Coming King" and the diversity of the dances this time. From cute (Basic 2) angels with wings to older (Ballet IV) angels with fluffy, long tutus and gold/silver streamers, to tiny "mothers" (Wee 3) with baby dolls to "sheep" (Wee 2) and shepherds (a group of 5 men dancing to a hilarious song!), as well as many songs in between, this will be a memorable presentation.

May everything involved - choreography included - bring glory to God in and through "The Coming King!"

Less aching feet!

2011-09-29T10:00:00.002-05:00

The new dance floor has arrived! This year, with the added classes, and the oldest taking twice/week, I decided to invest in a roll-out dance floor. The floor of the fellowship hall where I teach is concrete, which isn't a good surface for dance.

The roll-out floor is reinforced with a foam backing, so while it is still firm, it absorbs the shock for jumps. Plus, I've found my feet ache a whole lot less - after 4 hours of teaching, they use to hurt SO much, but now, while still tired, they don't ache as much.

The girls and I are enjoying a better surface for dance. Thanks to all who donated towards the floor - it is a big investment, but one that I think will be worthwhile.

Wee Ballet 1

2011-09-29T09:45:00.003-05:00

Little girls just starting dance are so precious. :) They come in knowing how to dance, and the joy they bring is a lot of fun. Of course, it can be a little harder for them to focus, and our goal is to teach them to dance together, instead of everyone doing their own thing. But, it's always a lot of fun to work with the tiny ballerinas.

This year I have a total of 23 students in "Wee Ballet", resulting in 3 class sections.

Wee Ballet 1, with Miss Miriam

The older girls helping with Wee Ballet 1 & 2 have been invaluable, since they have 8 and 10 students, respectively. With that much enthusiasm and energy, it's a blessing to have an assistant to help keep things organized!

Butterfly Ballerinas

2011-09-29T08:49:00.002-05:00

I enjoy finding fun props and things for the younger girls to enjoy at the end of some classes. This week, we had fun dressing up in butterfly wings I found at the dollar tree.

This class will be angels in "The Coming King" so they got to experience how wings feel, although, of course, they won't be colored when they're angels! ;)

I'd begin by telling the girls to curl up in a "cocoon" and then when the music started, they would "sprout" their wings and start to fly as they danced across the floor. :)

First week of ballet

2011-09-09T10:35:00.003-05:00

The King's Praise Ballet started its 5th year of classes this week. I have a few girls that have been with me all 4 previous years (and are still taking!) as well as about 30 girls that are taking from me for the very first time!

The total student count rose to 82 girls, divided into 10 classes. There was an influx of 4 & 5 year-olds, which makes things fun, with 3 "Wee Ballet" class sections. It's always hard to learn the names of all the students, but it's a joy to see so many girls wanting to dance for the Lord.

Ballet IV (my highest level) is taking 2 classes/week this year, and I'm excited to see them continuing to progress. There are 10 in that class, and it's fun to challenge them with new things, always striving for new excellence in technique, for the glory of God.

Due to the number of students, I also asked 5 girls in Ballet IV to be "assistants" in 5 of the younger classes. Even with just the first classes, I'm seeing the benefit of having someone to demonstrate and help organize the girls and keep them focused. It gives me the opportunity to help each individual student better. Before, if I stopped to correct something, many of the girls would stop dancing, as when they're younger, they learn a lot by imitation. I'm very thankful for my assistants this year! It also gives them experience, should they ever decide to teach on their own one day...

Each year when I get new students, I'm reminded how much a student does learn in just a year. Going over the basics of posture, positions, straight knees and turnout, it's always a reminder that ballet is not "natural" - ballet poise has to be taught! It's fun to get beginning students, but it's also gratifying to continue to teach the girls that have taken before, and see that they have learned and applied things, and that they are continuing to learn.

The first week of classes was busy, making sure everyone had what they needed, going over the student handbook at the beginning of each class, and ordering dancewear for those that needed it. After not dancing much this summer, teaching 12 hours of classes (divided over 3 days) left this teacher quite sore! But, it's good to be dancing and stretching again.

There were some challenges to the week. One almost-4-year old didn't want to leave mommy to come and dance... hopefully next week she will. :) I've lengthened the time of my Ballet I classes, but had a brain lapse the first class and let Ballet I/B out 15 minutes early by accident - oops! We also had a sad end to the first class day, when one student was told half-way through her class that her Grandpa had died unexpectedly. It was good to be there to hug and pray with her, and see her friends support her, but it was also a sad time. Her Grandpa was a big supporter and encourager of The King's Courts, coming to every dance and drama presentation we did - coming all 3 nights to the summer plays, and even going to see his granddaughters dance when we shared at a nursing home, and sometimes even to dress rehearsals, just to see to have more opportunities to watch them. He will be missed. But, we know he is rejoicing in heaven right now.

I'm looking forward to the year ahead, thankful for the opportunity to invest in the lives of these girls, ages 4 to 16. Though there are challenging, tiring, and busy times, overall it is a definite blessing and joy.

Fall Ballet Classes

2011-08-18T20:45:00.004-05:00

The King's Praise Ballet had it's last "info day" before classes start in September. Lord willing, 73 students will be taking, plus a few more potentials. God has blessed abundantly!

May God be glorified in the year ahead, as students learn to dance for Him!

"Found at the Well" pictures

2011-08-04T11:16:00.001-05:00

Thanks to two moms who are also great photographers, we have a lot of pictures to help us remember an amazing production. You can see an album of the best pictures by clicking here.

"Found at the Well"

Local News Report

2011-07-30T13:05:00.003-05:00

On Tuesday, a reporter for a local paper came to a rehearsal for "Found at the Well." He was fun to talk to, and share what God is doing through The King's Courts. Today, the article came out. I haven't seen the print version yet (will pick one up on my way to the 2nd play presentation!) but you can view the online version here.

To God be the glory! And what was encouraging, is that they kept God in the story - He is evident throughout, showing that it is NOT me or my efforts, but God alone that brings these productions together.

Picture credit: Mel Hall

Telling Stories

2011-07-27T19:00:00.004-05:00

"When I sees a wolf, slinking along the far side of the field!"

Rachel's stories get her in trouble with her sister Leah, but the shepherds love to hear them!

Picture credit: Robyn Clement

Swooning

2011-07-27T18:56:00.002-05:00

Atarah is a character that may get on your nerves a bit, with all her dramatic expression! But, she's a good contrast for the sensible and kind Rebekah!

Picture credit: Robyn Clement

Gemma and the Bad Guys

2011-07-27T18:49:00.004-05:00

The interactions of Gemma (feisty youngest sister of Zipporah) and the "bad guys" are fun! No, they don't actually throw her in the well (the above photo was staged) but they are pretty funny!

Come to "Found at the Well" this weekend, and you'll be able to see what happens! :)

Picture credit: Robyn Clement

Cast of "Found at the Well"

2011-07-26T22:16:00.004-05:00

God has brought a great cast together for Found at the Well! Looking forward to presentations this weekend!

Picture credit: Robyn Clement

Come to "Found at the Well"

2011-07-25T11:01:00.003-05:00

This has been a whirlwind summer, with 2 different productions with presentations only 3 weeks apart! This weekend marks the "end" though, at least for the summer. I've had fun, but I am looking forward to a break. :)

If you're in the area, you won't want to miss this original play, presenting the Biblical stories of Rebekah, Rachel, Zipporah, and the John 4 Samaritan woman. It's been fun to see characters come to life, and the cast has worked hard on it. If you're not in the area, I still ask for your prayers, that God will be glorified and lives touched as a result.

This flier has original artwork too, which is pretty neat. Katherine, a talented 12-year-old young lady drew it on the computer, with her dad helping and editing as needed. It was neat to see how it turned out!

"Found at the Well" promo

2011-07-23T12:02:00.001-05:00

Natalie made a great promo clip for "Found at the Well!" It's fun to see things coming together!

Only one week to go!

"Esther-Ordinary Faith" picture album

2011-07-18T10:32:00.002-05:00

The cast did a great job presenting "Esther-Ordinary Faith." It seemed to get better each night, and the sanctuary got more full each night, with it being almost completely full for the Sunday presentation. God was so good to bring everything together!

Last week was busy preparing for the cast party, which was Saturday. By God's grace, the DVD was done in time to watch, and we had fun having a sing-and-dance-along to all of the songs from the musical!

An album of pictures with captions telling the story can be seen by clicking the link below. I had great photographers that captured wonderful memories!

Esther-Ordinary Faith

Zerox the scribe

2011-07-09T13:55:00.002-05:00

Going into auditions, the character I knew we'd have a hard time casting was the part of Zerox the scribe. He's in almost every scene, doubling as a fun narrator, and so has the most lines as well as two solos. Most boys aren't confident in singing, so I knew that would probably lessen the number that would try out.

Daniel found out he'd be able to audition for "Esther-Ordinary Faith" last minute, but I'm so glad he did! When he read the part for us, we realized he'd be a natural. Plus, he could sing well!

He's done so well, taking on the challenge of the role, acting like he's recording all the action while remembering all the lines he had to memorize.

The parts where he reacts to what Haman is doing are some of my favorites.

His expressions are great!

His relationship with Mordecai is fun to watch, as the older mentors and teaches the younger.

And in the end, Zerox learns to have faith like Esther.

Great job, Daniel! It's been such fun having you in this production!

Picture credit: Robyn Clement and JP Lofgren

Casts Old and New

2011-07-08T17:35:00.003-05:00

This isn't the first time I've directed "Esther-Ordinary Faith." In fact, it was the first musical I directed, 6 years ago when I was 15 years old. Little did I know what that first production would start...

The first time, I played the part of Esther. We also have a few people in this production that were also in the first one. So, we thought it would be fun to get a picture with the old and new casts together.

Those with old and new cast pictured:

Esther: Anna/Sadie
Zerox: Caleb/Daniel (Caleb plays Xerxes in this one!)
Mordecai: JP/Phil
Guard: Jubilee/Noah and Graeson
Suzie: Esther/Josie
Sue: Natalie/Allison

It's been fun to re-do my directing of "Esther" - keeping some things the same, and changing others. It definitely grew... My first cast only had 15 people total. This time around, we have a cast of 55.

Praise God for memories both old and new!

"What will you do..."

2011-07-08T13:12:00.003-05:00

"...with the present?"

See what Esther did, tonight, tomorrow, or Sunday evening!

Picture credit: Robyn Clement

Rob's director shirt

2011-07-08T12:27:00.003-05:00

Rob's infamous director shirt made an appearance last night. His wife made it for him last year, and it embodies well what we constantly remind the cast...

So, cast, remember tonight:

We want to hear you!

Give us those nice expressions! :)

Picture credit: Robyn Clement

2nd Dress rehearsal

2011-07-07T22:54:00.002-05:00

The second and final dress rehearsal went well! Still had details to smooth out, but I'm trusting God will bring everything together for the presentations!

It's been fun, but tiring. :)

Picture credit: JP Lofgren

"Surely you wouldn't...."

2011-07-07T14:01:00.004-05:00

"Surely you wouldn't harm me!"

Really?

Picture credit: Robyn Clement

Queen Esther

2011-07-07T13:58:00.003-05:00

Sadie has done such a beautiful job portraying Queen Esther. When she sings and dances to "For Such a Time as This" you get the chills. She's risen to the challenge of the role!

Picture credit: Robyn Clement

Cast pictures

2011-07-06T15:36:00.011-05:00

This afternoon I'm editing cast pictures for the slideshow that will play at the beginning of the presentations. God brought a great cast together for "Esther-Ordinary Faith": 55 people from 25 families, representing 12 area churches. From age 5 to adult, they've worked together well!

I have been very blessed to work with them, for just over a month now!

Picture credit: Robyn Clement

Radio interview

2011-07-06T15:36:00.010-05:00

Want to know more about The King's Courts and the upcoming summer productions? This morning I had an interview with a local radio station, which was recorded and will play tomorrow (Thursday) at 7:05 AM (CST). Tune into Faith Radio, 89.1 FM locally, or online at FaithRadio.org!

Radio interviews don't fit comfortably with my natural, introverted personality. However, by God's grace I am learning to step outside of my comfort-zone. He gave me the words to say. May this interview to bring Him glory while spreading the word about what God is doing!

Picture credit: Robyn Clement

Promo video for "Esther-Ordinary Faith"

2011-07-05T16:14:00.001-05:00

Natalie, a cast member, costume mistress, dance leader, and younger girl helper, is also talented in the realm of videography. She made sure the first dress rehearsal last Thursday was recorded, and then made the above promo clip, in time to show at church on Sunday morning. I am blessed to be able to work with many talented young people!

"Esther" - First dress rehearsal

2011-06-29T21:59:00.004-05:00

I'm leaving on a weekend trip tomorrow and still need to finish packing, but I couldn't resist sharing some photos from this afternoon's dress rehearsal. "Esther-Ordinary Faith" is coming together well!

We took cast pictures today, then started the first full run-through with no stops.

"Zerox the scribe" serves as part-narrator for the story

Mordecai and the "Susans" provide a lot of drama

There are so many faces involved... 55 in the cast

So many sweet faces!

Things are coming together! We have just over a week to go...

I'm trusting that God will bring the final details together for this one - He always has in the past! And, though there's much to do and I look forward to sorting more pictures, I need to finish packing. The break away will be nice too. :)

Picture credit: Robyn Clement

Costume organizing for "Esther"

2011-06-27T14:57:00.003-05:00

Last Saturday we had our first rehearsal with costumes. Before that could happen, we had to decide what everyone would wear - no small task for a cast of 55!

So, the Saturday before, my sister and 4 other girls I lovingly call "adopted younger sisters" helped me sort through our costume supply. Because of all we've made and gathered over the years, plus some things the cast members gave us to borrow, I only ended up having to make about 6 new things, plus alter a few more.

It's always a bit overwhelming to know where to start. First we brought everything we thought we might need into the fellowship hall, and then started working through the costume book. Characters first, then through the ensemble by age...

No matter how well organized we start out, extra things always end up in a jumbled mess! But, many hands made the clean-up quick.

The costume notebook records each item for each actor, to keep things straight and know if it's property of The King's Courts, or borrowed.

Food and music were necessary for an upbeat afternoon. :)

Sometimes the girls doubled as models for the costumes. We decided that a girl trying on a guy's costume (in the above case, the one for King Xerxes) always made the costume look girlish...

After almost 5 hours, we were finally done. A lot of work, but made fun by all the good help. Thanks girls!

Come to "Esther-Ordinary Faith"

2011-06-24T09:59:00.002-05:00

Posting on this blog hasn't happened recently, mainly because of the above event! This summer I'm directing two productions, which has kept me quite busy. Auditions were June 6th & 7th, and two weeks from today, we'll present the first one, "Esther-Ordinary Faith!"

With a cast of over 50 from 24 families in the community, this has been a fun but challenging musical to direct. It's extra special for me, because this was the first musical I directed 6 years ago. It's been fun to revisit it, but challenging, as my cast is 4x as big as the first time! But, God is bringing it together, and I'm excited to see how He will bring it to completion.

Lots of work to do before then, though! :)

Pictures from "Let the Nations be Glad!"

2011-05-27T10:50:00.002-05:00

It's taken me a while, but I finally uploaded and captioned an album of pictures from "Let the Nations be Glad!" You can see them by clicking below.

Praise God for these great memories!

Let the Nations be Glad!

Praising God for "Let the Nations be Glad!"

2011-05-17T21:11:00.002-05:00

God did amazing things through "Let the Nations be Glad!" The dress rehearsal was a little rough, but everything went smoothly for the presentation on Friday, May 13th.

God brought many people to come and watch - the biggest crowd I've had for any dance recital. That was neat, and a lot of fun to share dance for God's glroy with many people. From grandparents to parents to siblings, to friends (even teenage guys!) it sounded like everyone enjoyed it, and were blessed by it. Praise God!

We had the ending dance party today, and I'm still sorting through more pictures to share. A mom took some wonderful close-ups of dancers that are precious, and will be fun.

As for now, already I'm registering people for fall ballet classes, and getting ready for auditions for the summer musical and play on June 6th and 7th! :)

The King's Praise Ballet 2011

2011-05-13T13:06:00.003-05:00

It always amazes me to see pictures of all my students together... It looks like such a big group, yet I know each individual by name, face, and personality. Even if I do accidentally call them the wrong name in class sometimes! ;)

God has given me 54 wonderful girls to teach with this semester. They've kept me busy, but been a joy.

To God be the glory!
Great things He has done!

Picture credit: JP Lofgren

"Set free"

2011-05-13T12:08:00.000-05:00

"For these are the ones who've been set free by Christ..."

Picture credit: JP Lofgren

"He's got everybody here..."

2011-05-13T12:07:00.001-05:00

"He's got everybody here in His hands..."

I love how Wee 1's dance ends. :)

Picture credit: JP Lofgren

Tri-colored Arabesques

2011-05-13T12:04:00.001-05:00

Picture credit: JP Lofgren

Dancing with the set

2011-05-13T12:00:00.001-05:00

The set wasn't quite finished in time to start, as the cross took longer than expected... the glue wouldn't dry, so Dad and Lydia had to sew the foam panels together. So, we had to start the rehearsal as they put the last few touches on. The girls did a great job ignoring it while they dance! :)

Picture credit: JP Lofgren

"Let His praises ring..."

2011-05-13T11:48:00.001-05:00

"Let His praises ring throughout the earth!"

Picture credit: JP Lofgren

Dancing at MerryWood Lodge

2011-05-05T19:29:00.005-05:00

The King's Praise Ballet shared at MerryWood Lodge (a local nursing home) this afternoon. Everyone did very well, things went smoothly, and people were blessed - praise God!

These less formal presentations are nice, because it gives performance experience to the dancers (thus they're not as nervous at the "real thing!") and it teaches them to share with and love the elderly, who can't get out much or at all, and so enjoy children coming to them.

Below are a few pictures from the afternoon. Thanks to my dad for taking them!

"Let His praises ring throughout the earth!"

These colors are so fun, and the skirts are definitely "props" as much as costumes for this dance!

Seeing young girls worship... a precious thing.

"Let all creation stand and sing!"

"He's got the whole world..."

One of these little ones was a little reluctant to go out to dance, but she did very well once she got there! It's fun to see little ones - and big ones! - overcome shyness and dance for the Lord.

"For her it was one choice to make..."

"Our brothers and sisters are paying the price..."

It was challenging to dance with a low-hanging chandelier, especially when using long ribbons! But, the girls did well at avoiding it, and nothing got tangled in it, though it did get bumped a few times. ;)

"No greater love" - a duet choreographed by students

"Ignites a candle, and makes His home..."

Other students choreographed a trio. Such joy on their faces!

In-action - fun shot!

I can't get over how pretty these colors are together! :)

Costumes in Class

2011-05-04T10:44:00.003-05:00

One of my older students got some fun in-class pictures of the girls practicing in costume during picture week.

Running to their ending pose line

Leaping for fun

Swirls of white and color

Making an arch for a friend

Pretty pastels

"Let's go!"

Ruffly skirts

Come to "Let the Nations be Glad!"

2011-05-02T20:47:00.002-05:00

It's hard to believe it's less than 2 weeks away! Please pray for many to come, and for the final preparations to go well!

Costume "editing"

2011-04-22T10:16:00.005-05:00

It's hard to find costumes, especially for older girls, that are modest. So, I often have to get creative, ordering a pretty but not too expensive costume that can be "edited." Often I add leotards or skirts underneath, depending on what the costume needs.

However, I try to find costumes that won't need too many alterations, as the costs and time add up if fixing multiple ones for a class.

With my solo, though, I could be more creative, since I only had to edit one. So, I ordered this dress, and added a maroon leotard, white chiffon fabric drape (to cover spaghetti straps and low neck), white skirt (since the dress was see-through - thankfully I already had this skirt from a previous costume), and a maroon sash (since the dress has an empire waist, and looked funny seeing the skirt waistband show through).

A bit of work, but I'm very happy with how it turned out. The dress works perfectly for my solo, danced to "The Faithful" by Steve Green, and representing China in "Let the Nations be Glad!"

Thursday ballet portraits

2011-04-22T10:09:00.004-05:00

Portraits turned out well from Thursday classes! Again, I had costumes arrive at the very last minute (after being back ordered and then shipped overnight express), but they came in time for pictures. So, praise God!

My dad was so kind to spend another afternoon taking pictures in between us practicing dances.

Country: Ireland

Ballet III got creative with poses!

We added their black class leo and skirt under this one, but it worked well, and didn't cost extra!

Country: Mexico

This costume is so cute! Works very well for the song "Cristo Me Ama" ("Jesus Loves Me" in Spanish)

Country: France

The pastel colors are so pretty together! The blue costumes were the last to arrive, 30 minutes after this class started. We were all so grateful when they came!

We added the colored leotards underneath for modesty, but even though they're from a different company than the costume, they matched perfectly!

Sister pictures are also so sweet. I love how these sisters are making each other laugh. :)

More sisters! Not all sister pictures fit together as well due to different colored costumes, but these three looked perfect together!

You can see more pictures in a Picasa album by clicking here.

Tuesday Ballet Portraits

2011-04-20T08:16:00.004-05:00

Pictures went well during classes yesterday! The girls all look beautiful, and it's fun to see the costumes turn out!

Country: Canada

After preparing myself for the worst (usually costumes turn out much skimpier in reality than they look in pictures) I was pleased to find these needed very little alteration - just a little take-in at the neck to help it not gape. No slips or other additions needed!

Country: Philippines

When I saw these costumes in the catalog, I new I wanted to get them if possible. No alterations, and so many beautiful colors together!

Country: South Korea

These costumes are just plain fun! Sequins and ruffles are cute on little girls!

Country: Russia

Girls in these costumes made it feel like we'd stepped into a winter wonderland.

We added the white leos underneath for modesty, but I found them on clearance, which was nice!

Country: Austria

Little 4-year-old students are so adorable!

Sister pictures are fun. I currently have 12 families with two or more daughters taking dance. It's fun to make it a family activity.

You can see more pictures in a Picasa album by clicking here.

Cowgirls from the USA!

2011-04-18T22:20:00.003-05:00

Ballet portraits are this week! Thanks to a backdrop created with the help of friends and family, a wonderful camera borrowed from a generous friend, and a dad willing to give of his time to take pictures, I'm able to offer pictures at affordable prices for families.

This group is representing the USA in "Let the Nations be Glad!"

Dancing to "The Great Adventure" (with stick horses!) for an extra optional dance for girls ages 5-9. Girls must want to be cowgirls, since 11 signed up! They sure are cute... :)

Wee Ballet 1 in class

2011-04-18T08:00:00.000-05:00

Wee Ballet 1 is my youngest class, consisting of 4-5 year old little girls. They're very sweet, but also challenging at times, to teach them to listen and focus and follow along. 6 are in the class this semester, and they've done very well so far!

Reviewing basic positions and pretty arms. "Make a picture frame for your face!"

Stretching to the side

Wiggling their toes and then trying to grab them - without bending their knees! :)

Lining up to dance across the floor. This in itself can be a challenge. ;)

Making sweet friends in ballet class.

Picture credit: D. Smith

Leaping!

2011-04-16T08:02:00.000-05:00

Tour jete!

Grande Jete!

Mirror images are fun! :)

Picture credit: The Paces

Teaching Images

2011-04-16T08:00:00.002-05:00

Since turnout is so important, I often find myself looking down more than up. It's neat to look at this picture, and see turn-out being applied!

Arabesques are coming along...

They're learning to spot... Always gratifying to see students turning together at the same rate!

I found this picture funny. As they do their dance, I'm walking through carrying my notebook, which I affectionately refer to as "my brain." It has my choreography written in it, and I'd be lost without it, trying to keep track of 15+ dances!

Picture credit: The Paces

New Props

2011-04-15T08:02:00.002-05:00

Long streamers for "Cristo Me Ama" the dance representing Mexico.

Ribbons for the dance representing Israel

Pink, purple, and blue fabric billows for the Philippines

Photo credit: The Paces

Barre Work

2011-04-15T08:00:00.001-05:00

Degages

Arabesque allonge

Coupe

Grand Battement

Photo credit: The Paces

Making a picture backdrop

2011-04-14T20:10:00.003-05:00

Next week is picture week at The King's Praise Ballet! My dad takes the pictures so that we can offer them at a very affordable price for families. Wanting a more professional backdrop this time, though, I brainstormed with an artist from my church, and am excited what God brought together!

Looking online, picture backdrops cost $100 or more. Not wanting to spend that money, I instead went to the Salvation Army store and found 5 sheets for $1 each. Can't beat that! :) Then, it was to start painting.

Dad rigged up the backdrop against plastic against the side of our house. It was nice to stand and paint, but we weren't sure how to paint, and ended up wetting the sheet, which then made the paint run. So, the first attempt didn't work quite like we wanted... It also faded a lot, since we'd watered down the acrylic paint.

A few days later we set to work again, this time laying the sheet down flat on plastic on our basketball court. It worked much better, once we figured out what to do. :) It was fun smearing the paint together!

Testing out the backdrop for a picture in my room meant we couldn't spread it out fully. Plus, I'm not exactly in ballet clothes, so the actual ballet portraits will look much better!

It definitely gives the cloud effect, though! It will work quite nicely with our "nations / world" theme for this year's recital!

Green = Monkeys

2011-04-14T08:04:00.002-05:00

I never thought I'd be teaching my ballet students to act like monkeys...

Huh?

You'll have to come to "Let the Nations be Glad!" on May 13th to find out what it means! :)

Springing

Playing

Photo credit: The Paces

Red = Fire

2011-04-14T08:02:00.001-05:00

Swirling

Snapping

Crackling

Photo credit: The Paces

Blue = Water

2011-04-14T08:00:00.001-05:00

Flowing

Rippling

Circling

Photo credit: The Paces

Balancing

2011-04-13T08:02:00.000-05:00

From two legs...

... to one

Photo credit: The Paces

Corrections

2011-04-13T08:00:00.001-05:00

Talking about turnout

Feeling proper placement

Photo credit: The Paces

More stretching

2011-04-12T08:02:00.001-05:00

Stretching hamstrings

Stretching to the side

Getting farther in the splits

Center straddle

Photo credit: The Paces

African Dance

2011-04-12T08:00:00.000-05:00

Ballet III is also representing Tanzania in "Let the Nations be Glad!" dancing to "O Sifuni Mungu" by First Call

It involves a lot of jumping!

Sissone!

Pas de chat ("step of the cat") gets turned into Pas de singe ("step of the monkey")

Photo credit: The Paces

Irish Dance

2011-04-11T08:02:00.000-05:00

Ballet III is representing Ireland in "Let the Nations be Glad!"

Flags add swirls of color

Learning Irish-inspired steps is fun yet tiring!

Photo credit: The Paces and Davises

Prayer before Plies

2011-04-11T08:00:00.000-05:00

At The King's Praise Ballet,

Prayer

Comes before plies

Photo credit: The Paces

Stretching at the barre

2011-04-10T15:22:00.000-05:00

Cambre devant (in front)

Cambre derriere (behind)

Photo credit: The Paces

Practicing Plies

2011-04-09T15:00:00.000-05:00

Now you see...

Now you do...

Photo credit: The Paces

Saute Arabesque

2011-04-09T14:43:00.003-05:00

Demonstration

Preparing for take-off

Execution

Photo credit: The Paces

Come to "Strength on Trial"

2011-04-01T18:04:00.002-05:00

"Me - Defined" sneak peak

2011-03-21T21:08:00.006-05:00

Come to "Me - Defined"

this Sunday at 6 PM
at Fountain of Grace Church
in Prattville, Alabama!

See a man wear a pot on his head...

Hear about a land of mirrors...

Listen to the Voice of Truth...

Meet a king named "Me"...

Remember our need for the Lord...

Take life to the extreme...

Listen to a phone-talking angel...

Be pointed to the One who defines you...

Surrender your all...

Fall more in love with the Lord, rather than being hung up on rules...

Learn what it means - and what it doesn't mean - to be a woman...

Be encouraged in who you are in Christ.

All this and more
- this Sunday, at 6 PM.

Reaching for their toes...

2011-02-25T14:24:00.003-06:00

The students are learning well and becoming better dancers as they stretch and grow in the art of ballet. It's a joy to teach my students each week. Praise God for His gifts!

Fun Ballet Attire - Spring 2011

2011-02-10T19:24:00.003-06:00

This week we had "fun ballet attire" days. Instead of wearing their regular pink tights with black leotard and skirt, students had the option to dress up a little.

Their regular, matching class attire is good to help maintain a focused atmosphere, as well as help me clearly see lines of the body to give corrections in teaching. But, it's fun to dress up sometimes too!

Note: the ages listed next to class names aren't necessarily the limitations for the class, but merely the ages of the girls I currently have in each class.

Wee Ballet 2 - Ages 4-5

I've found that using carpet mats helps them stay in their own spot when I need them to wait or do things on their own, and it also helps them not feel the cold floor in the winter months!

Wee Ballet 2 - Ages 6-7

Basic Ballet 1 - Ages 7-10

Basic Ballet 2 - Ages 6-9

Beginning Ballet - Ages 10-15

Ballet I - Ages 9-14

Ballet II - ages 10-13

Ballet III - Ages 12-16

It was a colorful week at ballet! :)

A new semester

2011-02-05T14:17:00.004-06:00

Blogging hasn't happened as 2011 got off to a busy start! After spending nearly 2 weeks visiting family up north, I launched into the spring semester of ballet classes, with all the work that goes into planning classes, scheduling and monthly newsletters, choreographing, ordering costumes and the 8 1/2 hours of actual class time teaching.

54 students are enrolled this semester, and they've been a joy to teach. From 4 year olds just starting out to 15-year-olds that I've been teaching for 4 years now, it's fun to see them learn and grow.

The theme for the May 13th recital is "Let the Nations Be Glad!" and it's been challenging and enjoyable to find costumes and songs to match with various countries in the world. We'll have about 18 countries represented through dance, and although the songs still primarily use ballet, it's been fun to try to give each dance some kind of flair from the country it's supposed to be "for." The dances for Africa, India, and Israel were particularly fun to choreograph, and YouTube has been a nice resource, to look up videos of dances from different countries, and try to carry over some movements into my choreography. 13 1/2 songs have been choreographed, which leaves me 6 1/2 to go, so during January and early February I've made good progress!

Tonight is the cast party for "The Manger Way." It's about time! :) We had originally set it for 2 weeks ago, but I had to postpone it when I came down with the flu. It will be good to see most of the cast (though not everyone can make it), share supper, and watch the footage of the presentation together.

Summer musical/plays are already in the works as well. Lord willing, I'll be directing two productions: one musical, called "Esther-Ordinary Faith" by Kathy Hill, and one play that I'm writing, called "Found at the Well." I just wrote the first 3 scenes of it this morning, and am excited about this look at the women changed by ordinary trips to the well: Rebekah, Rachel, Zipporah, and the Samaritan woman who met Jesus there.

Time flies by quickly, but it is exciting to see what God continues to do in and through The King's Courts!

"The Manger Way" pictures

2010-12-21T09:37:00.002-06:00

A photo album of "The Manger Way" has been made, with captions and glimpses of the production. You can never capture things in their entirety, but this gives memories to those who saw it, and a taste for those that didn't. Click this link or the picture below.

The Manger Way

Praising God for "The Manger Way!"

2010-12-18T22:27:00.002-06:00

God did it again. He brought a production together in more amazing ways than I could imagine. Both presentation nights went well, and though the first night I was missing 2 dancers due to illness, tonight all 62 dancers and actors were there, and did very well. Many people also came to watch and were blessed.

It's hard to believe it's over... it's always bittersweet. I am looking forward to the holiday break though, and preparations for the next production already began (during Thanksgiving break). :)

To God be the glory - great things He has done!

"The Manger Way" - Come!

2010-12-16T23:30:00.001-06:00

The cast

of "The Manger Way"

Invites you to hear the story of Christ's coming in a new way.

Friday, December 17th @ 7 PM
Saturday, December 18th @ 4 PM.

Picture credits: JP Lofgren and Robyn Clement

Motion

2010-12-16T23:27:00.002-06:00

Exciting movement

Swirls of color

Picture credits: JP Lofgren and Robyn Clement

Expressive

2010-12-16T23:22:00.004-06:00

Humorous

Commanding

Dramatic

Picture credits: Robyn Clement and JP Lofgren

Sweet shots

2010-12-16T23:19:00.003-06:00

Adorable angels

Cute smiles

For the glory of God

Picture credit: Robyn Clement

Dancing at Merry Wood Lodge

2010-12-09T19:46:00.008-06:00

The King's Praised Ballet danced at a nursing home this afternoon. The girls did a great job, and those who watched were blessed, praise God! We were missing four students due to sickness or travel (praying for a speedy recovery!), but those that came danced beautifully for the glory of God.

Scripture was read between dances, to give the true story of Christ's coming to earth.

Sweet little angels - and a big one to help.

This dance never seems to stop - couldn't get a picture of them still until the end! =)

Angels everywhere!

Touching duet portraying Mary and Joseph (danced by a father and daughter)

Fabric adds a royal touch.

You can't help but smile during this dance. :)

It's fun to make different formations using these vibrant colors.

"He made a way in a manger... to make a way to the cross."

I'm always amazed when I see pictures of my students all together, since they look like such a big group, but I know them each by name and personality. I am a very blessed teacher!

Thanks to my dad for taking these pictures, my sister for running the sound, and my mom for arranging the visit!

Dancers and Wreaths

2010-12-08T10:22:00.003-06:00

As soon as I saw the wreath put up over the mirrors when they decorated for Christmas at Fountain of Grace, I knew I wanted to try to get dance pictures using it.

It was difficult to position to get a lot of people in and still let the camera see, though!

Then, I had to deal with the camera flashing. So, the picture didn't quite work as planned, but we had some laughs trying to take it!

Stretching II and III

2010-12-08T10:14:00.004-06:00

On Tuesday I taught the last classes of the fall 2010 semester. It's gone by so quickly!

I combined classes, since we're going to dance at a nursing home on Thursday, so each class had twice as many girls as normal. Ballet II and III were the last classes that took together, and since I actually had my camera along, I decided to snap some pictures.

These girls have worked hard and are developing great flexibility!

Many have achieved their splits, and the rest are almost there.

Great work, girls! It's been fun to work with you and see you grow as dancers this year!

Come to "The Manger Way!"

2010-12-01T20:32:00.002-06:00

The presentations will be here before we know it! If you're in the area, I hope you can come. There's still a lot to do, but God is bringing the details together!

Costume Fittings - Take II

2010-11-19T00:25:00.005-06:00

Thursday's classes enjoyed trying on their costumes as well! It was fun to see the dances come more to life in the costumes the songs were choreographed for!

Teaching angels to fly...

Swirling - uh, twirling - together!

Cute and colorful

Fun with partners!

A swirl of the purple variety

Yes, the costumes were, and will be, quite enjoyed!

Costume Fittings

2010-11-17T00:16:00.006-06:00

Each class had costume fittings after their class on Tuesday.

Once everyone was ready, they came into the next class to practice their dance in costume, and have a small audience.

It's fun to see work put into sewing pay off!

The girls looked beautiful!

Of course, these littlest angels were some of the cutest!

They were delighted with their costume! It has the best skirt for twirling. :)