As I write today's blog post, there's less than a week to go until we perform 'Dance It Out'!
We've done everything in our power to prepare and this past week our dancers have been saying they're feeling ready, confident and excited.
Our dancers have, once again, given so much to this process. Rehearsing for a show is not easy by any means, and I'm so proud of the children for their commitment and enthusiasm. At class just last week, after practising one of their routines one of our dancers said: "Rachel, that routine was SO fun - please can we do it again?" That pretty much sums up the energy and enthusiasm that's been in classes and what a joy that makes it for me!
This is also why I think being involved in shows in such a worthwhile experience for children - they get so much out of the process with that sense of achievement after learning and perfecting routines over several months. When they take to the stage on Saturday, whilst the audience will be enjoying the final result I'll be thinking about the past few months getting to that point.
We've been talking in classes about why we're doing this - to raise money for Simpsons Special Care Babies - and it's really focused and motivated our dancers that bit more as we head for the stage.
For me, it's quite the combination of emotions as we head into show week. Putting on a show is such a long process that you may assume I'll be glad when it's done! On the contrary, I've enjoyed the process so much that I know I'll be a bit sad when it's over. Then there are nerves and anxiety as the day looms closer; I'm constantly thinking about whether I've forgotten anything, and wanting it to go well. Above all though, I'm incredibly proud of the children as we near the end of this process and excited for their families to see all their fantastic work.
Bring on Saturday!