Gold River Discovery Center students shine in Disney-inspired dance showcase

TK through fifth-grade students at Gold River Discovery Center took center stage in a Disney-themed dance showcase on Feb. 12 and 13, performing for their families and the community.

The event brought creativity to life, not just through choreographed dance routines, but also with personalized class shirts designed by the students themselves.

The showcase was made possible with the support of Starstruck Showcase, an organization that partners with local schools to help students shine on stage.

For second-grader Ruby, who’s no stranger to the stage, performing was pure fun.

“I’ve been on stage before for dance,” Ruby said. “I’m not one of those people who gets nervous.”

“Little kids were super excited. They were excited to learn the dance,” said first-grade teacher Stacy Kenner, who was instrumental in bringing the program to Gold River. “For older kids, most were excited but some were hesitant, a few nerves. But watching Mr. Danny dance and practice each week, they were super excited for it.”

Danny Avila, a dance instructor with Starstruck Showcase, said it’s always rewarding to see students transform during the program, especially those who are typically more reserved.

“I think that's the biggest benefit, just being able to get in front of a crowd and do something that maybe they don't do in an every day, environment. And seeing that personality come out in them, we see the shy kids where the teacher will be like, ‘Oh my gosh, look at him smile,” Avila said. 

Kenner added that one of the most powerful aspects of the experience was how students encouraged and supported one another across grade levels.

“Many kids were promoting others, saying positive comments and acknowledging how happy and excited they were for them. It’s a huge impact for all of the kids. It just feels good. It feels like one giant team and they’re rooting each other on,” Kenner said.