HAPPY NEW YEAR

What a year?! On this New Year's Eve, I find myself in a contemplative state as we await some important farewells.....................if this year has taught me anything it's that we must appreciate the now, the moment. So reach out and live for the today in the hope there will be a big, bright tomorrow. The washing can wait, the worries can disappear, look into the faces of all those who matter, let them know how important they are and Smile. Dance Your Merry Dance each day!
“Another fresh new year is here . . .
Another year to live!
To banish worry, doubt, and fear,
To love and laugh and give!

This bright new year is given me
To live each day with zest . . .
To daily grow and try to be
My highest and my best!

I have the opportunity
Once more to right some wrongs,
To pray for peace, to plant a tree,
And sing more joyful songs!”

WEBSITE ISSUES

Hey All,
Hopefully my messages are getting through to you via the blog while our website is on temporary hiatus but it will be back in the New Year, just like us, bigger (too many Lindt Balls) and better than ever! Thankyou for your patience!

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM STEPPING OUT

I am here in Lindt Peanut Butter Ball heaven waiting for the clan to awaken for the official UNWRAPPING of Christmas 2010. So as I await my family, my thoughts surely do go to my other special family, Stepping Out. On behalf of us all, my very best wishes for a Super Sparkly & Magical Day. I am very excited to think that there are so many amazing little and big people about to wake up and have such a joyful day! MERRY CHRISTMAS! Love & Peace to you all.

HOORAY- WE ARE ON HOLIDAYS!

BIG CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL STUDENTS ON THEIR TWO BIG PERFORMANCES!! We are elated and so proud of your outstanding performances and those big smiles. I am sure everyone is exhausted but what fun we had!! I am typing with Evie in one arm so forgive any typos but I think all my kids are very happy to have me on full time Mum duties so are taking huge advantage of my undivided attention. Mind you, living and breathing the Concert in the last little while means I have alot of housework to catch up on. AND THEN THERE IS THE FLOODING! - and they say no man is an island! mmmmmmmm well finally I have those water views I have yearned for! Now, I just have to pray that we can all get through for Orange & Forbes dress rehearsals and Concerts! Good Luck Miss Leesa & Miss Emma in the lead up.
Big thanks to everyone involved in our 2010 Concert! The back stage efforts were incredible and our gratitude to all the parents and helpers who made it as easy as possible. Thankyou

FANTASTIC STAGE REHEARSALS

Well done Everyone! The stage rehearsals were outstanding and we can't wait to see you all dressed in your finery at Dress Rehearsals this Wednesday and Thursday! We are getting very excited! Your enthusiasm has been contagious and a special thank you to all the parents who are going out of their way to make this a very momentous and magical time for your children! Your patience at Costume Collection yesterday was so appreciated and we have been thrilled to see you are as excited as we are for our Concert! Looking FAB everyone! Pack your Kleenex- these little stars are amazing!

STAGE REHEARSALS

Today we venture onto stage in what is an exciting step towards the REAL DEAL. Our new students will learn some important lessons in Stagecraft and our other students can brush up on their skills. All in all, there is something about the stage that starts to make it all that more magical. I am very looking forward to seeing how our "vision" materialises and how all our little (and big) star performers dance. Good Luck Everyone! This time next week I have no doubt I will still be tucked up in bed with a very proud, satisfied smile after two huge shows. See you at Wesley for the start of our very big week!
But before I go, a few little reminders;
* Costume Collection Monday classes , Monday 28th December, Studio
* Costume Collection Tuesday classes, Tuesday 30th December, Studio
* Classes on above two days as normal
* Hair & Make Up Demo, Studio Monday & Tuesday from 4pm
* Dress Rehearsals, Wednesday & Thursday, Dubbo Regional Theatre
* SATURDAY, 4th DECEMBER 2 BIG FABULOUS SHOWS, 11am & 5pm!

HOORAY FOR HOLLYWOOD

THE COUNTDOWN TO CONCERT 2010 IS HERE....................We have been thrilled with the students’ enthusiasm as we embark upon our exciting last month of rehearsals. Costumes are looking sensational and we have been overwhelmed with the outstanding response to ticket sales. This means that we will now be performing in two fabulous shows on Saturday, 4th December. Students will be required to perform in both the 11am and 5pm shows. TICKETS ARE NOW ON SALE FOR THE 11AM SHOW.
We will notify parents of arrangements for supervision of students and times of performance closer to the Concert. An order of appearance will be available within the next few weeks and on noticeboard in studio. We hope that our two shows will mean that parents can share costume changes etc and have the opportunity to watch a performance.
We are also asking for volunteers to assist backstage and in the supervision of students at either the 11am or 5pm show.

STAGE CRAFT REHEARSALS- SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 28TH

These rehearsals will be held on Sunday, 28th November at Wesley Hall, corner of Carrington Ave and Church St. Stagecraft rehearsals prepare students for entry, exits, stage dimensions and other important features of Performance. They are an important and exciting lead up to our Concert. Costumes can be collected from 9am- 2pm on this day (balances for costumes will need to be paid before costumes can be collected.)Please pack a water bottle for your child and for those students with numerous rehearsals adequate refreshments.
SUNDAY, 28th NOVEMBER WESLEY HALL, CARRINGTON AVE
9.00-9.45 Saturday Future Stars Ballet/ Jazz, Monday Future Stars Jazz
9.45-10.30 Primary Ballet, Junior Tap
10.30-11.30 6 yrs Jazz, 8 yrs Jazz,
11.30-12.30 10yrs Jazz, 12yrs Jazz,
12.30-1.30 Junior Contemporary, Level 5 Ballet, Level 2/3 Ballet
1.30-2.30 14yrs Jazz, Intermediate Contemporary, Junior Hip Hop
2.30-3.30 Junior Performance, Intermediate Tap, Senior Performance
3.30-5.00 Senior Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz, Contemporary, Tap

CONCERT UPDATE

Hi All,
I had my Tinies this morning and they always put me in a great mood. I got teary watching them rehearse........so beautiful and so much fun! Over the next two weeks, i will be posting copies of notes that will be going out in class to every student. This blog is your back up plan if the notes enter the great big abyss that can exist in our hectic lives....( I know , I know, 5 kids, 2 dogs and a great big mysterious somewhere where all the notes and socks venture to!) So, don't panic, we want everything about Concert to be focused on the fun and excitement! Everything is on here- just scroll through November archives and all your Concert Must Knows are here. Oh and they are also on the noticeboard in the studio. Good Luck in the lead up! We know it's a busy time.

MAKE UP GUIDE

It's that time of year again when we dive into our treasure trove of make up and get our little darlings looking gorgeous for the stage! Why do we need to put make up on the kids? Well, though your little dancer may look like a mini drag queen off stage, I can assure you that on stage, they will just look like their sweet little self (with just a touch more pizzazz.) The lighting used can wipe them out and make it very hard for them to dazzle us with their brightest smiles so they need a little help to highlight their features PLUS IT'S FUN! Little girls love make up!Mums, I feel your pain....it's hard to get animated, excited little faces still long enough to weave your magic wand. And then there is the liquid eye liner....oh and the tears, you forget how easily and often little faces can crumple into tears until you spy your pain stakingly applied handi work sliding down their faces. BUT know this, it does get easier and quicker. A little bit of practise before the big day and you are good to go. Remember, children, like animals smell fear! Go into the application with confidence and assertiveness. You are a make up magician. Here is my guide to lighting up our Junior's faces.
* Use a foundation in their shade ( you can go one shade darker than skin tone for stage but make sure you cover neck etc as well). I suggest using a sponge to apply. It's much quicker and much better for coverage. Some skin tones may not require much foundation.
* DO use powder to blot out shininess and it will help rest of make up to go on with ease and stay on.
* Use a white highlighter (shadow or powder form- some have a real sheen or a glitter) and lightly place under eye area and along cheekbone. Get your little one to suck in cheeks and generously apply hot pink blusher (for very rosy cheeks.)
* Closing eyes, cover entire eye area in white or ivory eyeshadow. Using a brown eye shadow cover entire eye lid. Accentuate corner of eye with a darker brown shade. Trace top lid with crayon eye liner in black and extend along eye in a cat's eye. (I use a crayon liner rather than pencil as it is easier on little faces). Use crayon liner under eye as well but below natural line so as to enlarge eyes.
* Use a white eye liner in corner of eyes on both sides.
* If using false eye lashes apply now. Use glue on both lashes and paint along upper lid. Press firmly and hold until fully dry. If not using eye lashes ( on little ones etc) just use mascara on top and lower lashes. Apply LOTS especially if they are fair.
* You can then if you like go over crayon with liquid eye liner ( I use the pen ones) as again they are much easier.
* On fair children , it is important to draw in eye brows in slightly darker shade than hair. Just lightly colour in.
* Outline lips in lip liner- I colour in lips with it as well and then apply lip stick! HOT PINK- as bright as you can find!!
Here are some pics of Immy & Onny in full make up! There are always lots of mums who have been there, done that all before and remember their first days of making up their children and who are only too happy to help! Please ask us if we can help you! Concerts should be fun and not stressful!
Make up photos coming soon!!

IMPORTANT NEWSLETTERS

Our stage rehearsals, dress rehearsals, hair & make up guide will be going out to all students next week. For those wanting a sneak preview, notes are already up on the noticeboard and will be published on this blog next week. Keep coming back as I will be devoutly posting news and info in the lead up to concert.

11AM SHOW NOW ON SALE

We have had an overwhelming response to our 5pm show with only a few seats left ( in just two days of ticket sales!) We have decided to proceed with a second performance and this will be 11am on Saturday, 4th December! Tickets for this show will go on sale today! How exciting! Get in quick for your "Hooray for Hollywood" tickets. Walk the red carpet with us as we applaud our very own Superstars in two big performances.

5PM SHOW NEARLY SOLD OUT

Hi,
Tickets for the 5pm show went on sale today and are almost sold out! If you haven't already got your tickets, please do so we can make a decision about opening the 11am show! Its getting very exciting! I am looking forward to getting stuck into classes this week as the 4 week countdown begins!

HOORAY FOR HOLLYWOOD- TICKETS ON SALE NOVEMBER 8th

Tickets for our 2010 production "HOORAY FOR HOLLYWOOD" go on sale Monday November 8th at 9.30am sharp through Dubbo Regional Theatre. Tickets will go on sale on the website www.drtcc.com.au, at the Box Office and also over the phone 026801437. Please note that there is a $2.95 transaction fee for phone bookings and for those who wish to have their tickets posted.

The ticket prices are as follows;
Adult - $22.00
Concession (Must Provide Government Issued Pension or Health Care Card Only) - $18.00
Student (Must Provide Student Card) - $18.00
Child U/14 - $18.00

Tickets for the 5pm show will go on sale first.

Eisteddfod Group Results

Outstanding results were enjoyed at both Wellington & Orange Eisteddfods. I was witness to the wonder at Wellington Eisteddfod and heard that the kids were even better at Orange ( despite the weather!! Oh Dorothy there is no place like home- or hospital!!) Congratulations to all involved, my fellow teachers, Miss Emma & Miss Leesa ( her team of Rachel, Stef & Co), Miss Jacinta and of course our fabulous students and tehir families. I was very sad I couldn't celebrate our last Eisteddfod for the year and my birthday ( and Melissa's & Brandi's) at Orange but so thrilled to hear you were such fantastic ambassadors for Stepping Out on and off the stage. Well done. I will search the recesses of my mind and mobile for the results.
WELLINGTON
Highly Commended- Under 10s Contemporary, Open Modern, 14 years Jazz,14 years Contemporary, 12 yrs Tap, Open Tap
2nd- Open Hip Hop, 14 years Modern
3rd- 12 yrs Jazz, 12 yrs Modern, 14 yrs Contemporary
ORANGE
Highly Commended- 10 years Modern, 12 yrs Jazz, 12yrs Modern, 14 yrs Modern
Very Highly Commended- 14yrs Modern
2nd- 14 yrs Contemporary
3rd- 14 yrs Contemporary
2nd- Open Hip Hop
1st- Open Contemporary
The solo results were outstanding from both Eisteddfods as well as Bathurst with Stepping Out soloists receiving brilliant results, continued improvement and good times. There are far too many amazing results for me to remember but well done to you all. I will compile them when i see you all back after holidays. Please forgive my baby brain.

Mad Hatters Ball

David, Evie and myself were thrilled to be at the Madhatters Ball on September 18th with all the Dance Unlimited gang as they fundraise for their big USA trip in 2011. We know first hand what an amazing experience this is and congratulations to Tanya and all involved for such a fabulous night. We got to sit next to Todd McKenny and what a fun, lovely man he is. Evie's first dance partner! Good luck Dance Unlimited!

Let me introduce you to Miss Evie

Here is Evie Jean Anne who blazed into the world and our hearts on September 1st at 10.20am. We dropped the girls to school, hit the buzzer at the labour ward about 6 times before finally gaining entry and welcomed her a very short time later! Spring had sprung! Evie is currently guest co-teacher at the studio! Say hello! She is loving the music and the kids. What a beautiful way to be introduced to this adventure of life? Lots of love,laughter, dancing & music!!

I'M Baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaack!

Hi All,
Long time no see but what a term we have had! I promise to be a more consistent blogger from now on especially in the lead up to Concert! As you all would know from our newsletters, SO MUCH HAS HAPPENED so where do I start!!!
Yesterday, my littlest girl, EVIE JEAN ANNE SLACK-SMITH turned one month and where has that month gone? It seemed like in the month before her arrival, time had stopped. We waited and waited......anxiously I might add for our latest arrival and then in a flurry of excitement, she was here and time has once again sped up. To say we are all besotted is an understatement...............
Life is good, very good in the Slack-Smith world and likewise, in the Stepping Out world. So be patient please, as I update you on Term 3 and get you ready for Term 4! To give you a summary of events,
*We had Wellington Eisteddfod- brilliant group and solo results!
*I had a baby girl on September 1st.
*I didnt make it to Orange Eisteddfod ( still in hospital) but was filled with pride for all my other babies who did so well with groups and solos thanks to text updates from Miss Emma, Miss Leesa and all the kids & Mums.
*Great news from Bathurst Eisteddfod soloists.
*Dubbo Concert "Hooray for Hollywood" announced.
*Costumes measured for Dubbo Concert- Hope you are all measured?
*Ballet Exam preparations!!
*The Madhatters Ball in Mudgee to aid Dance Unlimited!
*Stepping Out dances at the launch of the Dream Festival!
So now to do justice to all these fab events- updating now!! Oh hang on, I can hear a rebel yell from the bedroom, Little Miss Evie is stirring- funny that, there is also a commotion coming from the loungeroom-Yes Cale & Archer! I am so missing my two nannies Immy & Onny who are holidaying with Nanny & Poppy at Nelson Bay! Stay tuned, exciting updates from Stepping Out coming soon and lots of pics. I have missed you!!!

Classes Start Back on Monday, 19th July

Hi Everyone,
I hope you are all having an amazing Holiday Break! I have enjoyed a big week of feathering my nest and am now getting very excited about Term 3. Classes will start back on Monday, July 19th! See you all there! Term 3 will see us embark upon Ballet Exams, Wellington Eisteddfod, Orange Eisteddfod and of course, the big preparations for our End of Year Concert! ( YES THEME IS DECIDED!!!) Whoo Hoo- good times galore!

Dubbo Bridal Fair

Big thanks to Anthony Bartley, Melissa McDonald, Courtney Hart, Brandi McGuire, Lachlan Pilon and Joe McDonald who recently danced at the Dubbo Bridal Fair to acclaim and Anthony tells me a return invitation for two appearances next year! You are all very clever and I hear you had a ball. Nice limo ride! Always arrive in style my Stepping Out superstars......Always!!

Congratulations Amber

Congratulations Brinley

FORBES EISTEDDFOD RESULTS

Well done to everyone who competed in the first week of the holidays at Forbes Eisteddfod. We enjoyed excellent results!
Brinley Catto had an amazing time at Forbes gaining first places in all three of her routines! Well done Brinley! She won the 6 yrs & U Open Jazz, 6 yrs & U Open Classical and very spectacularly, 8 yrs & U Modern. ( I heard this one was especially beautifully performed.)Brinley was also the recipient of the Most Promising Trophy.
The Keizer Girls did us all proud with spectacular performances. Holly received 2nd in 8 yrs & U Jazz, 3rd in her Demi, and admirable performances in her Tap, Ballet & Modern. Laura knocked the crowd out again with her superstar smile and boom boom Hips to get Highly Commended in the Baby Dance. Miss Meg also did a beautiful job, winning her Jazz Duo with Miss Jade Bunt and Highly Commended in Jazz. Great performances in all her other solos. Miss Jade did a very impressive impro to tricky music and danced very well in her Open divsions.
Amber Bunt received Highly Commended in her Classical, 2nd in Modern Impro, Highly Commended for her Modern, 1st Jazz Impro, selection in both Jazz & Classical Scholarships, 1st in Classical Scholarship (YAY!) and 1st with Brandi McGuire in their new Modern Duo ( and by new I mean finished a few days before performance.)
Sascha Windsor was amazing in her first solo winning her Jazz and did a fantastic job of her Modern. Cleo Ferrari also danced amazingly in her sections.
Brandi McGuire received Highly Commended for her Modern and outstanding performances in all other routines with very strong competition.
Well done to Melissa McDonald who won her Jazz solo and Highly Commended in her Jazz Impro. Great work Lissy! Brother Joe got a whopping 92 points and 1st place in his own Choreography! What a talented pair!!
Paris Burns received 2nd in her Classical, 3rd in her Demi, 2nd in Modern, 1st in Contemporary and 2nd in Modern Championship and was selected as a finalist in the Classical Scholarship.

Any other news from Forbes please let me know! I was rummaging through my text messages to get this terrific news. Happy Holidays Everyone! See you next week!

BREAKING NEWS! AMBER BUNT- WINNER JUNIOR CLASSICAL SCHOLARSHIP

Hey- pics and news to follow but the breaking news is that Amber Bunt not only qualified for the Forbes Eisteddfod Scholarship but was also the winner of it! CONGRATULATIONS! WE ARE SO PROUD!

Dubbo Eisteddfod Results

Whoah Phone is already beeping with incredible results from Forbes so thought I better share our Dubbo successes. I hope everyone is enjoying their holidays! Some of our dancers are very busy at Forbes Eisteddfod!
SENIORS WEEKEND-( please note that majority of senior division had 30 competitors in each section and reflected very strong competition.) 13/14 yrs Contemporary Solo- 3rd Paris Burns, 13/14 yrs Modern Solo- 1st Paris Burns, Intermediate Ballet Championship- 2nd Paris Burns, Highly Commended Open Contemporary Championship- Paris Burns.
Open Jazz Solo- 2nd Anthony Bartley, Open Entertainment Solo- 1st Anthony Bartley.
Unfortunately Courtney Hart was out of competition due to a sprained ankle but in true Courtney style was in the audience cheering us on.
Lachy Pilon- Highly Commended Open Jazz/ Hip Hop. Excellent performances were also enjoyed by Rebecca Richardson, Brandi McGuire and Melissa McDonald.
JUNIORS- H.C 11/12 yrs Res Modern- Amelia Rice. Congratulations to Sophia Dickerson, Sabine O'Connor, Georgia Erskine and Cleo Ferrari for beautiful performances.
Laura Keizer wowed the crowd with her Baby Dance. Jade Bunt did a fantastic job dancing in Opens for her first year with excellent performances in Her Demi, Classical, Jazz & Modern Solos ( and Impros!) Holly Keizer was 3rd in her Under 8s jazz, H.C in her Classical, 3rd in her Modern with awesome performances in her Tap and Demi routines. Congratulations to Cleo Ferrari for 1st in 11/12 Restricted Jazz, 3rd to Sophia Dickerson and brilliant routines from Imogen Slack-Smith, Sabine OConnor & Georgia Erskine.
Brinley Catto received 2nd in her Open Under 8s Jazz Solo, H.C in her Classical and Modern Solo. Ondine Slack-Smith received 1sts in Open Under 8 Classical & Open Under 8 Jazz Solos. Kacey Crisante was 3rd in her 10 yrs Jazz Solo and Meg Keizer H.C.. Meg also danced beautifully in her Tap, Modern, Classical sections and did a roof raising duo with Jade Bunt. Emma Blake also did a sensational job with her first year dancing in Open Division. Quite a feat to qualify for this girls!!
Amber Bunt had a very successful Eisteddfod with Hc Open Jazz, 1st Modern Impro, 1st 12 yrs Contemporary, HC 12 yrs Ballet Impro, sensational Own Choreography and brilliant Championship routines.
Well done to Onny Slack-Smith & Holly Keizer who despite only being 7 danced in the under 12 Jazz Duos with ten other pairs and received 3rd place. They also received a HC in the Under 12s Classical Duo.
Imogen Slack-Smith gave a very emotive performance in 12 yrs Contemporary and received 3rd. Big congratulations also to Hannah Hodginskin for her solo debut!
WELL DONE TO ALL OF OUR SOLOISTS! I HOPE I HAVE REMEMBERED YOU ALL.
GROUPS- HC 10 yrs Contemporary, 3rd 12 yrs Modern, 3rd 12 yrs Jazz, 3rd 10 yrs Jazz, 2nd 14 yrs Jazz, 3rd 14 yrs Modern, 2nd 14 yrs Contemporary and 3rd Open Jazz. Fantastic competition from local and afar dance schools ( GO DANCE UNLIMITED! My dear friend's Tanya school!)

Congratulations Paris- Finalist City of Sydney Eisteddfod

DUBBO EISTEDDFOD

I intend to sit down and write up all our fantastic solo and group results ASAP. Stepping Out has had an incredibly busy term and I have been trying to catch up on all the happenings as well as busily prepare for my next big production, BABY NUMBER 5 so look out for the comprehensive list of solo results and group ones in next few days! In the meantime, here are some pics!!

DUBBO EISTEDDFOD- MAJOR AWARD RECIPIENTS

Congratulations To Anthony Bartley who won the Open Entertainment Solo, 2nd in Open Jazz and sensational performances in Open Contemporary and Open Own Choreography! Anthony was also awarded the Adjudicators Choice Trophy for her favourite solo performance 13 yrs and over at Dubbo Eisteddfod. Huge congrats to Anthony!
Paris Burns was awarded the Encouragement Trophy at Dubbo Eisteddfod and danced beautifully winning 14 yrs & U Modern Solo, 3rd 14 yrs & U Contemporary Solo, 2nd Ballet Championship and Highly Commended in Open Contemporary Championship. Competition was incredibly strong and there were very large sections to well done to both students for the honour of being awarded major awards.
BREAKING NEWS! Paris has just rung from Sydney where she is competing in the City of Sydney Eisteddfod ( a most prestigious dance competition) with some very exciting news. She is one of 6 finalists out of 70 competitors in the Contemporary Solo section. WOW PARIS!! This is an awesome achievement! BEST WISHES for the remainder of your performances and of course your Finals.

COWRA EISTEDDFOD

Paris Burns travelled to Cowra Eisteddfod in May and had an outstanding Eisteddfd. Paris gained 1st places in very large sections, with her 14 yrs & U Modern Solo, Contemporary Solo, Demi Character Solo, 2nd place in Classical Ballet Solo and 2nd place in Open Ballet Championship. Paris was also one of eight finalists selected for the Scholarship (out of 30 competitors) with the eventual winner being a Genee Awards Bronze Medallist. ( so Paris was in very fine company!) Paris was also awarded the Most Promising Dancer Trophy and the Highest Pointscore Trophy! Congratulations Paris!

HI ALL- LONG TIME NO SEE

I write from under a haze of sequins, lack of sleep and of course laundry! Since my Gulgong posts, we here at Stepping Out Dance Factory have been like little pixies working into the night in our preparations for Cowra & Dubbo Eisteddfod. Along with this, is the ever pressing in utero rehearsals for the big debut in August, of Baby Slack-Smith! So many exciting things are happening and we couldn't be more thrilled with the successes of our students at recent Eisteddfods and of course the many good times we have shared. So, throughout the day, I will be sharing all our good news and insights!Congratulations to all of our students from Dubbo, Orange & Forbes. There were so many instances when we were able to appreciate not only your magnificence on stage but your brilliance off stage with your sense of fun, friendliness and outstanding team spirit and sportsmanship! It truly is an honour to share in so many wonderful young people's lives and I thank their families and them for being such fantastic people. There are no DIVAS at Stepping Out! Hallejuah!! Big thanks also to the other studios who came together in a celebration of dance.

MORE AMAZING RESULTS

Unfortunately, I had to return to Dubbo to teach but was incredibly excited to hear the familiar beep beep of my phone for remainder of week heralding the following results. Apologies if I miss any as these are the ones my feeble mind are able to recall.
1st- 13/14 yrs Jazz- Melissa McDonald, 1st- 13/14 yrs Restricted Modern- Brandi McGuire, 2nd- 13/14 yrs Restricted Contemporary- Courtney Hart, 1st- 13/14 yrs Open Ballet- Paris Burns, H.C- Courtney Hart, 2nd- Open 13/14 yrs Tap- Brandi McGuire, 2nd- Restricted 11/12yrs Contemporary- Amber Bunt, 3rd Open 11/12 yrs Jazz- Amber Bunt, 1st Modern Expressive Impro- Amber Bunt, H.C - Open Jazz 13/14 yrs- Courtney Hart, 1st- 13/14 yrs Modern Expressive Impro- Brandi McGuire, H.C Entertainment- Brandi McGuire, 1st- 13/14 yrs Modern Expressive Open- Paris Burns, 1st- 11/12 yrs Modern Expressive- Amber Bunt, 1st- 13/14 yrs Open Contemporary Solo Paris Burns, 2nd- Courtney Hart, 3rd 11/12 yrs Jazz Impro- Amber Bunt, 1st 11/12 yrs Demi Impro- Amber Bunt, 3rd- Open age Modern- Paris Burns, Open Age Contemporary- 3rd Paris Burns, 1st- 13/14 years Contemporary Demi Paris Burns, 2nd- Courtney Hart, 1st 13/14 yrs Demi Impro- Courtney Hart. We were absolutely thrilled to discover that Amber Bunt was recipient for Most Promising 11/12 yrs Dancer trophy & that Brandi McGuire was recipient for 13/14 yrs Most Promising Dancer trophy. ( this means Stepping Out kids was awarded this age trophy for all age divisions bar 10 yrs- mighty effort!!!)High point scores were enjoyed by all. Paris Burns did her first ever Ballet Championship and won 1st place with 97 points in each routine in an Open Age Division! WOW! Paris was also awarded the Most Promising Classical Ballet Dancer Trophy. Courtney Hart was beautiful and recived a Highly Commended. Amber did her first Jazz Championship and received 2nd- woo hoo! Other noteworthy Championship dancers were Brandi McGuire and Courtney Hart!
Now that you have read all of this, I am sure you know why I have been too exhausted to update blog, Pride & Joy are very tiring emotions! GO STEPPING OUT!!

GULGONG SOLO RESULTS

Big congrats to little Laura Keizer on her solo stage debut! Laura lit up the stage and we were all so proud of her! Brinley Catto was the delighted recipient of the 6 years "Most Promising Dancer" trophy and won her Classical and Modern Solos in her age section. Holly Keizer received 3rd in her first ever Tap solo, 2nd in her Open Classical Solo, 1st in her Modern Expressive Solo and 3rd in her Jazz Solo. Holly was also the recipient of the "Most Promising Dancer" in the 8 yrs age division which was very exciting. Holly & Ondine Slack-Smith then teamed up for two duos, dancing brilliantly and winning both their Jazz & Classical routines. Onny was also 1st in her Open Classical Solo and 2nd in her Jazz Solo ( my little Wonder Woman.) Congratulations to Meg Keizer for 1st in her Demi Character, H.C in her Classical, 2nd in her Tap solo, 3rd in her Jazz solo and a gorgeous performance in her Modern. Stunning performances and a very noteworthy improvement was evident in Georgia Erskine's three incredible performances in Jazz, Modern & Classical. Cleo Ferrari was amazing, receiving 3rd for her Jazz solo and making an impression with her beautiful Modern solo. Sophia Dickerson rocked the house, winning the 10 yrs Jazz solo and dancing beautifully in her Modern. Jade Bunt was incredible gaining 3rd in her Classical, H.C in her Demi and stunning performances in Open Jazz and Modern. Emma Blake was also a superstar in her first Open Jazz division and beautiful in her Modern, winning a 3rd place. Gorgeous performances by Imogen Slack-Smith with a lovely Modern Solo and a 1st place in her Jazz solo. Big congrats also to Amelia Rice who danced amazingly in both her solos. Kacey Crisante was another Stepping Out wonder gaining 2nd in her Jazz solo. Well done Girls- I was fortunate to be in the audience for most of these performances and I was gobsmacked. Miss Emma and I were so proud.

OUTSTANDING RESULTS AT GULGONG!

I have been very busy and so have neglected the blog but am wading through my TO DO list and just had to share the outstanding results and our immense pride from the wonderful start to our Eisteddfod season. Congratulations to all involved. Results ( literally far too many to list)to follow but I will try are truly jaw dropping amazing and best of all, you all looked to have improved and to be enjoying yourselves. Go Stepping Out!

OH MY! GO V MAN

What a day! I started back at studio today doing holiday classes and our soloists are looking incredible. I got to have a quick catch up with Vincent who is currently living in Sydney and a student at Urban Dance Centre! I JUST GOT A MESSAGE FROM VINCENT and guess what, he has been asked to appear in the Finale' Show of So You Think You Can Dance! He will be performing in Jason Gilkinson's and Jason Coleman's routines! What an incredible achievement! We couldn't be prouder!

I have an early start tomorrow with a flight to Sydney to meet up with Miss Emma for an intensive dance teaching course! We are sure to come back very inspired!

Happy Holidays!

RETRO IMMY BUNNY - Enjoy your Easter Holidays

HOPPY EASTER

Hello,
At long last I have an internet connection back. ( having some serious online shopping withdrawals!) Look forward to lots of posts about what's happening at Stepping Out. Term 1 is officially over ( bar Saturday classes!!) I am on holidays at beautiful Port Stephens and don't think I have sat down for so long in any one spot for a very long time but if you are basking in the sun and watching your kids frolic in the surf, it's a necessary evil. Our best wishes for a fabulous Easter break. We hope you all get to relax, recuperate and eat copious amounts of chocolate.

CLAIM THE DATE- CONCERT 2010

Our Concert will be held this year on Saturday, 4th Dec at Dubbo's new theatre! How exciting? Tiered seating at long last!! We can't wait- but so much to do in the meantime. At this stage, we are looking at doing two performances. Of course, we are expecting sell out crowds to watch our amazing performers! Dress Rehearsals will be held on Wednesday, 1st Dec and Thursday, 2nd Dec! Stagecraft and Costume collection will be held Sunday, 28th November.
* Other Important dates are Ballet exams in September!

REHEARSAL TIMETABLE- SUNDAY, MARCH 7th

Hi Everyone,

Performance Routines for 2010 are already off to an impressive start! We know we have been working you all hard but know your efforts are paying off as you improve and progress each week. Thankyou for your enthusiasm and we look forward to seeing you this Sunday as we finalise each routine in readiness for Eisteddfod season. Sunday, March 7th
10.15- 11.00am 10 years Jazz / 14 yrs New Contemporary
11.00- 12.00pm 14 years Jazz / 10 Yrs Lyrical/ Contemp
12.00- 1.00pm 12 years Jazz / Open Modern
1.00-2.00pm Open Jazz / 12 yrs Lyrical/ Contemp
2.00-3.30pm Open Hip Hop
* Please bring drinks and snacks as we will ensure those who are dancing for long periods get a break to re- fuel.
Don't forget that Costume Measurements will be held on Thursday 11th & 12 th March.

Hey just realised Miss Emma has put in a lunch break so please check with your note give to you in class this week! See you Sunday

PERFORMANCE TEAM- KEY DATES

Dear Performance Students,

This note is to remind you of important dates coming up on our Performance calendar.
* 3rd March- Gulgong entries close for all soloists and duo entries. Please ensure that you have an entry form and it is sent by this date. There are photocopies of entry forms at the studio. Ask Miss Emma, Gail or Miss Rikki.
* 7th March- PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP AT STUDIO
A comprehensive note explaining timetable for this day and costuming requirements will be available early next week. Please leave this date free so that all routines and groups can be decided upon.
* 11th & 12th March- COSTUME MEASUREMENTS
A note will be available early next week explaining costuming for all groups. On the 11th & 12th March, measurements will be taken between the hours of 4 and 7pm at 1A St Georges Terrace. Students can choose a time and date that is convenient but ALL costumes must be measured on either of these two days to ensure costumes are ready for collection for Eisteddfod Dress Rehearsal. A DEPOSIT OF $30 PER COSTUME WILL ALSO NEED TO BE PAID.
* Gulgong Eisteddfod Committee has indicated that Group Day will be held on Sunday, May 2nd.
* Performance classes are going extremely well and we are very excited by the students and their enthusiasm. We just know that this is going to be a fun and successful Eisteddfod season.
Thankyou for your co-operation

DANCING THROUGH THE TERM- Where does the time go?

Well, I am surrounded by the madness of the morning as we all bustle about to get out the door but had to take a moment to have a deep breath and pause and think about the wonderful few weeks we have had at our Dubbo studio. I will be posting lots of news today because so much has happened, is happening and will happen. So much so, this is the first time since classes started I have had the opportunity to draw breath and fill you all in. I have also emerged from the haze of sore limbs and exhaustion to announce, I think my dancing MOJO is back. I know all of our students are now well into the swing of it and back at their peak and dancing beyond our wildest expectations. Well Done everyone, We are super impressed!! Thankyou to everyone who is inspiring us in our classes and to all the happy faces who parade through our doors each week. We love what we do. Lots of news and pics today so stay posted. Off to get the kids to school and swimming!

OUR NEW STUDIO ROCKS!

Hi,
Well it has taken me a while to move these aching limbs to share what has been a "sore" but spectacular week of dancing at our new Dubbo studio. It looks incredible and feels amazing to teach in. Miss Emma and I are still on a crazy high. I have been exhausted and barely able to move each morning but there is such a sense of excitement in the air that it is contagious. We missed everyone so much and couldn't believe how hard everyone worked. Our first Performance Troupe classes for the week were gob smacking! Keep it up everyone!! We are so excited! I am looking forward to meeting my Future Stars tomorrow and getting stuck into everyone's solo routines. Here are some pics I stole from Caroline's Facebook page! Thanks Caz!
So wonderful to welcome you all back and meet so many new faces!

Bye Katie Carrington- An Ice Spectacular

Farewell Katie

We enjoyed a farewell for Katie Rice yesterday! Katie started dancing with us when she was only three years old and now at twelve years of age is about to forge ahead on her next big adventure, boarding school. Kinross Wolaroi is a very lucky place to get our very special Katie Carrington Rice. Stepping Out thanks you for your friendship, your spirit and for the honour of having accompanied your childhood dancing years. We look forward to hearing from you and all of your triumphs and successes over the years.

2010 ENROLMENTS

We had a huge and wonderful Enrolment Day! It was fantastic to see so many of our former students and welcome so many new faces! We look forward to sharing in another wonderful year of dance with you!!I have had a few panicked calls from people who were away for Enrolment Day! Never fear, it's ok, we are still taking enrolments and ask that you contact us so we can send you through a timetable! Thankyou to everyone who has phoned and emailed. It has been fantastic to hear from you and we are thrilled you are returning! If you would like more information about 2010 please email me at rikki@steppingoutdance and i will forward you all relevant information or call me on 0413 361724.
CLASSES WILL RESUME WEEK COMMENCING MONDAY, 8th FEB! We think all the kids need a week to settle back into school and of course Mums and Dads need to ease back into the extra curricular world. TO ALL OF OUR STUDENTS starting back at school or for our little ones, starting school, our very best wishes for a wonderful school year!
Can't wait to see you all back in class and hear of your excellent holiday and school adventures!

And more pics from PROJECT: STUDIO

NEW STUDIO!! Looking Good

Hey There,
New studio is certainly on the way and looking schmick! Huge thanks to Gail, Tim, Dan, Miss Emma, Eric and his team and James for all their hard work in getting studio ready!!We are very excited! It's going to be beyond awesome and stay tuned for news of our special Opening Night! You are all invited! in the meantime, here are some progress shots!

Congratulations Jess- Welcome to the World Dakota

Congratulations to Jess & Nathan on the birth of Dakota Gregory on Wednesday, 20th January! Another little dancer!

SUMMER WORKSHOPS

A few of our students just had to keep dancing through the holidays at various Workshops throughout the region. Cleo Ferrari had a great time at the DBS Workshop, Paris Burns is still over the moon about her week at McDonald College with guest teacher, prima ballerina Darcy Bussell and pictured here is Amber Bunt, Imogen Slack-Smith, Ondine Slack-Smith, Bella Keenan and Brinley Catto with teachers Jason Winters & J.D.

ENROLMENT DAY

Hi Stepping Outers,
We hope you are all enjoying your holidays and getting recharged for the New Year! Gail, Miss Emma and myself had a very productive day at the new studio during this week getting ready. Work on the new studio will begin on the 20th of January so we will be under construction on Enrolment Day but so excited that the vision will have started!!
ENROLMENT PACKAGES WILL BE SENT OUT NEXT WEEK! Please email me at rikki@steppingoutdance.com.au if you have not received your enrolment details by Monday, 18th January.
I sat down and watched the Concert DVD yesterday and WHOAH, I was blown away! Congratulations to everyone. It truly was a fantastic night and the routines looked AMAZING!
For any prospective students checking in on our blog, a big welcome and please contact us if you would like more information about becoming a student at Stepping Out Dance Factory in 2010.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! BRING ON 2010

Happy New Year everyone! Stepping Out is very excited for the Big Year ahead!
“Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.”
Oprah Winfrey
HAPPY HOLIDAYS EVERYONE!May we all soar this year and reach for the stars.