Over 400 children from 14 Isle of Wight primary schools took part in Isle Dance 2020 this week – an exciting dance competition for local children.
The competition, held on Monday and Tuesday, was jointly organised by Gurnard Primary School and The Starlight Boutique to provide an opportunity for young Islanders to showcase their talents on a professional stage in front of a large crowd.
On both nights the children performed in front of a sold-out audience at Medina Theatre. A panel of professional actors and dancers judged the choreography, performance skill, drama, concept, costume, hair and make-up and soundtrack for each performance.
On the first night the worthy winners were Newport CE Primary School with their dance ‘We’re all in this together’. The dance followed the story of 2 young sisters and their father as they faced the trials and tribulations of life during the war – from being at school one minute and being evacuated the next, to surviving bombings and the celebration of a reunion as the end of the war in Europe is announced.
The judges said it was a very committed performance. They really loved the concept and the song choices and costuming that helped to convey the era and the mood.
Lead Teacher Donna McQueen said:
“The children have worked so hard over the past few weeks learning their routine as well as understanding more about life during the war. We had a mix of children aged 8-11 working together and supporting each other and watching their confidence grow over time has been a reward in itself. We can’t wait to perform our routine again when we celebrate VE Day in May!”
Joint runners up on Day 1 were St Thomas of Canterbury Catholic Primary School and Godshill, Chillerton and Rookley Primary Schools.
The winners on the second night were Gurnard Primary School with their performance ‘Welcome to Wonderland’. Their dance followed Alice as she begins her journey into the unknown after her curiosity is sparked by a peculiar white rabbit who always seems to be in a rush.
The judges said the dancers were superb storytellers who brought Lewis Carroll’s imaginative world to life. They were impressed with the inventive use of ensemble, strong choreography and enthusiastic and focused performance.
Dance Teacher Michelle Davis said:
“It was a great event with a fantastic atmosphere. The children have worked so hard and their enthusiasm to get it just right showed. We’re so, so proud of them.”
Second place on Day 2 went to Nine Acres Primary School with Greenmount Primary School in third place.
Vanessa Hicks, one of the event’s organisers and Headteacher of Gurnard Primary School, said:
“It was fantastic to see so much talent from Island schools on one stage – they made their families and schools very proud.
“The standard of performance from all of the children taking part really was exceptional. It was a wonderful experience and we’re already looking forward to next year’s competition!”
Participating schools:
Monday 10th February 2020
St Thomas of Canterbury Catholic Primary School; Newport CE Primary School; Carisbrooke CE Primary School; Arreton CE Primary School; Barton Primary School; Godshill and Chillerton & Rookley Primary Schools and Holy Cross Catholic Primary School
Tuesday 11th February 2020
Dover Park Primary School; Greenmount Primary School; Broadlea Primary School; Brading CE Primary School; Gurnard Primary School; St Mary’s Catholic Primary School and Nine Acres Primary School.
All photos by Robert Longford Photography
