By Peter Rusland, Cowichan News Leader Pictorial, June 24, 2011

Carlson’s dancers are In The Mood To Dance.

They’ll prove why during this weekend’s big, annual recital in the Cowichan Theatre.

That’s where 24 different floor routines by some 400 students, says teacher and Carlson’s School of Dance co-owner Joyce Scott.

“They’re getting a chance to dance on our wonderful theatre’s stage and gaining confidence and enjoying it,” Scott said of the theatre boasting a professional maple-sprung floor.

“Many of our students have never danced on the stage before and it’s all about self–esteem.”

Confidence-boosting routines will span tap, ballet, hip-hop, modern jazz, jazz, musical theatre, and stretch-and-strength.

Carlsons’ kids have presented some of their moves during the Cowichan Music Festival, and in events held in Victoria and Nanaimo, she noted.

“Five of our students have gone to provincials as soloists.”

Pupils recently invited to the B.C.’s in Kamloops included Guiliana Mansueti, Madelaine Campagn, Robin Jory, Malia McMullen, Krista Schmidt.

Parker Schmidt was also an observer.

Meanwhile, Scott said hot costumes will set for Mood.

“Some have been ordered from around North America, and others were made by parents,” she said, applauding togs from Sherman Road’s Masque Dancewear Shop too.

“We just want viewers to enjoy themselves seeing all ages dance.

“We have a mixture of little, wee ones and adults.”

Carlson’s will add a Zumba class of Afro-Latino routines — under teacher Julia O’Leary — to its repertoire next year, Scott noted.

Mood volunteers include senior-dance students and parents helping pupils “get to know stage protocol,” said Scott.

“This show’s all about kids doing good things, and we don’t see enough of that,” she said some press reports focused on troubled youths.

Your ticket

What: Carlson’s School of Dance’s In the Mood For Dance

When: June 24, 7 p.m., June 25 at 2 and 7 p.m.

Where: Cowichan Theatre

Tickets: $14, $12 students, $10 children. Call 250-748-7529.

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