The Lee Anne Stewart Fusion Dance Team began its competitive season this year in Indianapolis participating in the Dance Makers Inc. convention and competition. Dancers took classes from performers and choreographers who stress not only technique but also the importance of proper nutrition, stretching, strengthening, showmanship and etiquette. The team’s solo and small group numbers had the opportunity to perform. “I Need Some Sleep” and “Oh So Quiet” earned second-place awards. “Be Young”, “Folding Chair,” “Two Birds” and “I Can’t Do It Alone” all were given first-place awards. Then in March the team traveled to Chicago for the Hollywood Vibe convention. There they again took classes in ballet, hip hop, tap, jazz, lyrical and contemporary styles from prominent dancers and choreographers. They competed with their team numbers “Real in Rio,” “Just Another Day in Hollywood,” “Here on Who” and “Fabulous Places.” The solo and small groups competed as well. The duo “Just a Coupl’a Sisters” won a platinum award, and the team rounded out the awards ceremony with three high gold, eight gold and four high silver awards. In April the team participated in the Variety Competitions in Fort Wayne. “Just Another Day in Hollywood” was given the judges’ award for showmanship. Meghann Wood, Janae Stewart and Lee Anne Stewart were honored with a judges’ choreography award for “Here on Who,” and Meghann Wood received an additional choreography trophy for “Folding Chair.” The pieces performed won 11 high gold and two gold awards. The judges even commented that the dance school was very creative in concepts, and they enjoyed watching all of the studio’s work, according to a press release. For overall excellence the team received four first places, two second places and one third place. The team will wrap up its season with a trip to New York City in June. They will have the opportunity to take classes in New York studios and be involved in a work shop with the Rockettes. The team will end its tour with a performance on the USS Intrepid. All of the Lee Anne Stewart dancers, along with the Fusion Team dancers, continue taking classes in the Nappanee, Syracuse and Winona Lake locations to sharpen their skills and prepare for the 41st annual June dance productions. Registration information for summer and fall classes can be found online at stewartdanceschool.com, at the dance studios, or by calling 877-658-9875. The schools will perform their “Oh the Places We’ll Go” themed production June 7, 8, 13, 14 and 15 at the Warsaw Community High School Performing Arts Center. Tickets can be purchased at the door or online at tututix.com
