Recital time

Erin Lind, staff writer

Every year on Memorial Day weekend, Stevens Dance and Gymnastics host their annual recital. I’ve been involved in their recitals for the past fourteen years. From dancing to tumbling, I’ve done it all, and I loved every bit of it. Recital is held at Jacksonville High School in the auditorium on Saturday, May 28 at 2:00 and 7:00, and then on May 29 at 2:00. I’ve made a lot of memories on the JHS stage and it’s been an unforgettable experience! Every year there are approximately 45 numbers in each show. This year I am in five dances: tap, jazz, hip hop, modern, and high heel tap. Recital time is my favorite time of year with all the lights, makeup, fun costumes, and the performing! It’s a very busy and exciting time for all of us dancers. We’re constantly running around having to change from costume to costume as quickly as possible and make sure we have every hair piece and accessory that goes with! We have quick changes which feels like only two seconds to change and do anything and then we’re right back out on the stage again dancing our hearts out! Dancing is a passion and a lifestyle for all of us dancers no matter which company you belong to.  And for some of us, it’s our future careers that we are pursuing. Recital is a magical and fun time, and it’s my favorite time of year to spend with my second family. Dancing also brings you closer to people; you meet so many new friends who eventually become family! Recital is full of energy and life and the feeling you get at the end of dances when everyone in the audience claps for you makes you feel so good inside to know that all of your hard work paid off in the end! I’m going to miss this time of year, but I’ll be back to watch the rest of my friends do what they love most in life!