Dance competition returns to Weyburn

Smiles. Music. Grace. Fancy footwork.  

All were on display at the Cugnet Centre in Weyburn this past weekend, as the facility was the site of the Inspirations of Dance competition. This was the first time since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in March of 2020 that the competition was held in person. 

“It’s great,” said organizer Marley Brown. “The kids have missed out on a lot so it’s great to see them finally out there showing off their stuff.” 

Last year, the event was held virtually, which Brown explained impacted the number of entries. With the return of in-person dance competitions, the response was overwhelming. 

“This year, we have over 700 entries and 22 studios attending.” 

For many of the dancers, this is their first time being out in front of an audience, as the pandemic and the public health orders surrounding it limited the capacity of audiences, and even limited when and where they could dance, aside from rehearsals. 

“It’s exciting, but it’s also kind of nervous for people who haven’t been dancing for a while,” said Jordynn, one of the competitors in the event. “Like me, I’ve only done an online competition.” 

“This is exciting for a lot of these dancers out here,” added Brown.

Dancers on the stage at the Inspirations of Dance competition Sunday morning.