On Friday, November 3rd approximately 250 West Jefferson Elementary School Students were invited to the Indigo Bridge Theater, located at Peak Academy of Dance. They will be able to witness the danced version of “I am Moana”. The performance will include a variety of different dance and movement forms; Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Aerial and Character Based Mime, performed by local young dancers, ages 5-18.
This outreach marks the 10th anniversary of the Peak-West Jefferson Elementary Walking Field Trip. Our first outreach signified an organizational shift in how Peak interacted with the larger mountain community.
We came to realize through this experience that we were not just an isolated studio, running a business in a small mountain community. We are actually part of a much larger, dynamic communal body. At times we were the giver and at times the receiver, but always part of the greater whole.
Over the past 10 years around 3000 Mountain Area Students have filed through the Peak Academy of Dance doors to experience a live dance performance. For some kids, it's the first time they've been able to see live dancers or a live performance of any sort. It's been known to leave a positive impression.
This event is one of our studio’s highlights each year. It is a powerful opportunity for Peak Performers to connect and commune with the greater mountain community.
Recently, I drove through the Conifer Starbucks drive-through. The attendant, a lovely young woman, asked me what I had planned for the afternoon. I shared that I was going to work. “Where do you work?“ she asked. “I run Peak Academy of Dance.” Her eyes lit up and a big smile came across her face. “I remember Peak, we came to see performances there when I was in elementary school."
This example of meeting up with such a lovely young person from our community reminded me of just how important this outreach program has been for all those involved. We love this time of year when we can connect with the neighboring students and share the beautiful gift of dance."
I Am Moana is perfect for all ages. There are 4 dates scheduled for the community to attend I Am Moana: November 4th, 10th, 11th, and 12th.
More about I Am Moana: The adventurous Moana sails out on a daring mission to save her people. During her journey, Moana meets the once-mighty demigod Maui. Together they sail across the open ocean on an action-packed voyage, encountering enormous monsters and impossible odds. Along the way, Moana fulfills the ancient quest of her ancestors and discovers the one thing she always sought: her own identity.
