Poised for performance
Young talent competes for festival firsts and a coveted dance scholarship
THE next wave of dancers with bright futures will take the stage on the Queen’s Birthday long weekend in front of So You Think You Can Dance choreographer Sarah Boulter.
The Green Way Dance Festival, held at the Innisfail Shire Hall and now in its seventh year, is the first of its kind in North Queensland, offering a platform for all forms of dance, for all ages and all levels.
The festival is fast paced, and the audience is encouraged to applaud throughout the items, with the events in jazz, classical ballet, tap, lyric, contemporary, hip-hop, and specialty events in variety, boys only solo and glitz.
The all-abilities category, which was introduced two years ago, is for the dancers who have special needs and was a heartfelt event to watch.
The Green Way Dance Festival differs from many other dance competitions as it allows the dancers to perform within their level of training and experience.
“The festival this year has the wonderful honour of having one of the Australia’s most celebrated master dance teachers and choreographers, Sarah Boulter, as adjudicator,” organiser Karen Vick said.
“Ms Boulter will bring unmatched and much-appreciated insightful critiques, as well as having the knowledge of dance as it is today. She owns and runs one of the country’s most successful full-time dance programs.”
Dancers will be performing in hope of being chosen to receive a scholarship to Ms Boulter’s Sydney-based full-time company Ev and Bow.
Young performer Sophie Mackay said she was excited about this year’s Green Way Dance Festival and would be dancing her best for the chance to receive the scholarship.
“Miss Boulter is a top choreographer and it is a privilege to have her in Innisfail for the festival,” she said.
“I’m really looking forward to it and have been rehearsing a lot.”
The Green Way Dance Festival will
be held in the Innisfail Shire Hall from June 4-8. Thursday June 4 — all 10yrs and under solos, Friday June 5 — all 12yrs and under solos, Saturday June 6 — all 13yrs and over solos and Sunday June 7 — all duos trios and groups. Tickets available at the door.