Photos by Pat Shortall
A recent production of ‘Showstoppers’ at Kilkenny’s Watergate theatre received great praise from Kilkenny audiences. It was presented by ‘Dancewise’ who are based in Kilkenny and Castlecomer.
This energetic and talented group were founded in 1998 and it would appear that the same enthusiasm, vim and energy is still as strong as ever.
The production featured dancers ranging in age from three to adults.
And believe it or not, some of the dancers have been stepping it out with the dance group for the past twenty years. And still going as strong as ever. Now that’s dedication.
The Kilkenny Observer spoke with Michele Wise who runs the school and her committent to dance, the arts and her students is evident.
If ever the old saying ‘find a job you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life’ is apt , then Dancewise certainly fits the bill.
Michele commented “It’s true we love what we do and it is a pleasure dealing with the day to day issues that arise”. “However”, continued Michele “it is tough work and long hours and the secret to our success is all the crew that work with the school, and our backstage crew. Without the army of helpers, including family, friends, and parents, we would be lost.”
The Watergate show was packed from start to finish with wonderful music, costumes and of course great dancing.
Some of the numbers included: Hercules, Hard Knock Life, Waka Waka, The Luttle Mermaid, Moana, Shrek the Musical, Stranger Things, the Mask, Bugsy Malone, Mean Girls, Sister Act, Alice in Wonderland, Euphoria, Recovery – Addiction Awareness, Stand Up.
The crew included : Choreographers: Veronica Burke Sharon Murphy Leanne Owens Melissa Byrne Lisa Coogan Claire Funchion Zoe Byrne Michele Wise.
Show Production: Sarah Brennan
Backstage helpers included: Trish Devlin, Yvonne Mcabe,Ian Coogan,Ruby Burke, Sadie Brennan Williamson, Ciara Mchugh and Josh Owens .
Costumes: Sharon Murphy
New students are always welcome. Classes are on every Tuesday (starting back in September) in the Loreto Secondary School, Granges Road and Castlecomer Community Hall. Check out Dancewise social media for more information.
