Yesterday was the first day of Paige's dance competition - she performed her solo. We arrived at around 4:00 pm, and didn't leave until about 10:15...and now we have to go back in a couple of hours for her to perform the group piece. Ugh.
First, I have to say that Paige did a wonderful job. I wasn't able to get any photos because they have stupid rules about flash photography and taking videos. But she looked poised and in control, not rushed, and her technique looked beautiful. (Click here to see photos her solo from practice last week) Her solo was really pretty and simple - no gimmicks (like "props"...chairs, shirts, etc.) which it seems like most of the dancers had. Don't get me wrong - there were some really good dancers there...But it seemed like so many of them relied on skimpy (I mean REALLY SKIMPY) costumes, and overdone theatrics to cover up their lack of technique and solid dancing skills. Maybe I'm too picky, but I think pointing your toes should be considered a staple. And speaking of skimpy costumes...you would not believe how many of these kids were in the skimpy TWO PIECE costumes. Which is OK when they are little, but a lot of these girls were more amply endowed. It makes you wonder why they thought that was a good look. Were they thinking, "Oh yeah, my fllabby belly is gonna jiggle and jiggle in this and everyone will be able to see it. Cool." OK, yes, that's kind of mean - but seriously, you should have seen it! Blech.
So, OK, we have to head back for another round of really loud music and annoying "cutesy pie" dancing. Yay. Sigh.
Here are a few pictures of Paige imitating some of the other dancers "style"....
I managed to get ONE photo of the kids, and Clay actually cooperated!
Waiting for the awards...
Paige getting her gold medal...
