The Robin Dawn Academy Holiday Showcase brought the magic of the season to the stage in Fort Myers. This event filled the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall with music, movement and dancers of all ages, showcasing their talents to the community.
Caisson Dobson, a dancer at the academy, shared his unique perspective on dance.
“Dance is definitely something that I explain as a language without words. And I think it’s really cool how you can express yourself without talking,” said Dobson.
For Dobson, this language comes to life every holiday season. The showcase featured dancers aged 3 to 18 performing a variety of dance styles, from lyrical to hip-hop, all set to holiday favorites.
“The showcase is so special because it just brings so much holiday cheer to everyone, to the audience, especially to the kids watching,” said Dobson.
For dancers who have grown up in the studio, the holiday showcase is a chance to celebrate and have fun together.
“I think that dance can be taken so seriously and given as a message. But it also doesn’t have to be so serious. This show is so much about just being in the holiday spirit and having fun. So I love that I can show all kinds of sides of myself,” said Adelaide Zolecki, another dancer.
Zolecki also reflected on the growth that comes with being part of the dance community.
“With dance comes a lot of maturity and respect. I think the studio makes you grow up quickly,” said Zolecki.
For Aelynn Figuerola, an 11-year-old dancer, this year’s showcase presented a unique challenge as she performed with older dancers.
“I think the biggest challenge for me is just kind of keeping up. I think I just tell myself, take some deep breaths, you’ve got this, give it your all,” said Figuerola.
Despite her nerves, Figuerola fit right in on stage, impressing parents and the community with what she and the other dancers have learned this season.