Desert Sun Performing Arts ‘rocks the mouse’

The DSPA Gems, Desert Sun Performing Arts’ competition team, recently traveled with 34 dancers to perform at Disneyland. 

They performed their award winning dances on Carnation Stage next to the Disney Castle.  Dances included “Fast As You Can,” “Ironic,” “Trickle Trickle,” “Follow the Leader,” “Breathe” and “You Should Be Dancing.”  While there they attended multiple workshops with professional Disney choreographers. To achieve this trip, the dancers had to fundraise thousands of dollars. They worked diligently selling cookbooks, cookie dough, hosting car washes and working at Firebird Raceway.

Being able to perform at Disneyland was an incredible experience for everyone.  “I have been to Disneyland many times, but my favorite part was having my dance family there to share it with,” said Denise Baker.

The dancers learned a lot from their trip that can be applied both on and off stage.

“Natasha’s favorite part was dancing. We talked about why it is important for them to perform at places like Disneyland, and she first said because people like to watch them dance…because it helps her be comfortable in front of an audience. She agrees that it has helped when she’s had to make presentations at school, “ Christine Nechvatal said.

The DSPA Gems also competed in the Kids Artistic Revue in Mesa on March 19-20. They won seven first place trophies and six top first place trophies. 

Additional awards included: 
 
3rd runner up 8 and under age division, Miss Petite Dance
4th high score overall solo, 12-14 age division
4th high score overall small group, 15-17 age division
4th high score overall large group, 9-11 age division
Judges awards: “Way to Work It Award,” ” Touching Tribute Award,” “Fabulous Faces Award”
 
In addition, the DSPA Gems competed at I Love Dance Competition in Phoenix on April 3, winning the following awards:
 
3- 2nd place awards
8- first place trophies
Overall costume winner
3rd high score overall solo, ages 8-10
1st place high score overall beginner group, age 8-10

Desert Sun Performing Arts is Maricopa’s premiere dance and performing arts school.  DSPA features Rising Stars program for ages 2-5, Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Modern, Lyrical, Musical Theatre, Jazz Funk, and Inspire, a unique program for dance lovers with special needs.

Desert Sun Performing Arts is located on the corner of John Wayne Parkway and Garvey.

Submitted photo