A group of young dancers from Just Move Dance Studio in Jersey are preparing to perform at Disneyland Paris this month, following their successful audition for the Disney Performing Arts Programme last September.
The team of 22 dancers, aged between 6 and 14, have spent the past eight months rehearsing for their 20-minute show, Dancin' Fool. The performance features eight routines set to Disney songs such as It’s a Small World and Zero to Hero, choreographed by Just Move teachers Danielle Brien and Paris Nield, who took inspiration from different styles of jazz.
Rehearsals have taken place on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in addition to the dancers' regular classes. The show includes three costume changes, each with only 40 seconds for the dancers to switch outfits. The routines also had to meet strict Disney guidelines to ensure the performance is child-friendly.
Danielle said: "It was hard work at times for them. All the children have really improved with their dance ability."
Beyond their dance skills, she praised how the all-girl team had picked up life skills like team work, commitment and hard work. Danielle said she hoped to make the show "really enjoyable and memorable", adding that it would be "an amazing experience" for the dancers.
As well as their main performance, some of the dancers will also take part in Disneyland Paris' pre-parade show, featuring choreography by Disney.
The Just Move Dance Studio team will take to the Videopolis Stage at Disneyland Paris at 16:00 on 27th May.
The dancers are currently fundraising to help cover the cost of travel, costumes, and other expenses. Donations can be made via their GoFundMe page.
