California Dreamin’ with Kelly Dance Force
by Melanie Heartfield
57 Kelly Dance Force members and parents recently enjoyed a fantastic five-day trip to Los Angeles, California and the surrounding area. KDF participated in dance classes at “The Edge,” a famous dance studio in L.A. where many professionals both take and offer classes. The team also participated in a Disney Dance workshop in which the girls were able to participate in a mock audition for Disney as well as learn tips of the trade that make performances sparkle. During the trip, KDF was also invited to be a part of Disney’s Performance Arts program where they had the opportunity to perform a 20-minute show featuring jazz, pom, ballet, lyrical and novelty routines on a Disneyland stage.
Highlights of the trip included a tour of Los Angeles, Beverly Hills and Hollywood; two days spent enjoying rides and shows at Disneyland, and visiting the Santa Monica Pier and eating incredible seafood. The group also spent a fabulous day at Universal Studios exploring “Harry Potter World,” and other unique attractions.
As if things could not get any better, along came the final activity: a whale-watching cruise. Dancers and parents alike were enchanted by pods of jumping dolphins and a lucky sighting of two grey whales. This magical trip combined sightseeing, performing, learning and nature – and those of us who were lucky enough to attend will never forget it. Many thanks to April Vernon, Kelly Dance Force director, for organizing this trip for the team and parents.