National spotlight
Covington Integrated Arts troupe invited to Florida dance competition
The Covington Integrated Arts Academy dance troupe, under the direction of Memphian Deborah Walker, attended a Tremaine dance competition in the DallasFort Worth area as part of their annual schedule of events.
At Tremaine events, dancers from across the United States not only compete, but receive instruction from professional dancers and choreographers, as well.
T he CIAA troupe won first place in their division. Although CIAA dancers have participated in these competitions for many years, winning first place was a first for them.
This win brought thrills and excitement to the entire school and indeed the whole community, Walker said.
It also brought them an exclusive invitation to the Tremaine Nationals in Orlando, Fla., this month.
“This is an exceptional opportunity for our students,” said Walker, “and something we certainly don’t want to pass up.”
The group faced the hurdle of raising funds for the Florida trip. With great community and school support, they are almost there. They continue to practice and prepare for competition, too. Costume fittings, final travel plans, and putting on polishing touches are underway.
They are also continuing to raise funds.
For these students and their sponsors, school continues throughout the summer.
“This really is a big deal,” said Sara Gangaware, CIAA principal.
“It’s well deserved and opportunity of a lifetime for these kids,” she added. “I hope people realize what a great accomplishment this is and how it puts us in the national spotlight.”
“Of course, I hope they win,” said Gangaware. “But getting the exposure and opportunity to learn at such a high level is just phenomenal. They are really great — I wish Justin Timberlake could see them. These kids are doing what he did to launch his career and they are his hometown folks.”
Covington Integrated Arts Academy is a public arts magnet school in Covington and open to all Tipton County students.
To make a donation to support the dance troupe or other arts at CIAA, make checks payable to CIAA Arts Booster and mail or drop off at Covington Integrated Arts Academy, 760 Bert Johnston Ave., Covington, TN. 38019