Cardinal Newman dancers contribute to charitable causes

Cardinal Newman Secondary School’s Contemporary Dance Team created a meaningful and powerful aura at Michelangelo Banquet Centre, all for a good cause.

On Friday, February 24, dancers from Cardinal Newman took part in a fundraiser, hosted by Diletti Salon and Spa along with Golfi Concrete and Drains.

This first annual event raised funds in support of breast cancer research and McMaster’s Children’s Hospital.

The contemporary dancers are part of one of Cardinal Newman’s four competitive dance teams. The dancers put many hours into learning and perfecting the piece they performed. Through these extra practices and long hours, the dancers built a connection to their song and dance.

“With lyrics as beautiful as these, it’s so easy to find yourself putting your own past times into the meaning of the song, especially while connecting to the song physically through dance,” said Amanda Horvat, a Grade 12 student-dancer. “It’s very important to have a connection to your music, and this song just happens to be one that you can completely lose yourself in and be absolutely vulnerable to your emotions.”

All of the students’ hard work paid off during the emotionally profound piece, which left the audience in awe.

The evening began with the moving performance to the song “Rise Up,” about perseverance and strength. The dancers demonstrated professionalism and poise while onstage.

Andrea Ferroni, the dance teacher at Cardinal Newman, choreographed this complex piece. She explained her influences as follows.

“Everyone has a story and at some point endures physical and emotional pain. As humans and dancers, we need to reach out to them to show our love and support. My dancers are the artists who bring my vision and the theme to life. I could not be more proud and inspired by them.”

The dance was meant to inspire others to help those who are struggling, which suited the fundraiser beautifully.

This moving performance was followed by a fashion show with clothing designed and made by local seamstress, Golden Thimble.

The dancers were grateful for the opportunity to share their talents and artistic story with a community that goes above and beyond to ensure that the needs of others are met.