The second annual Reel North Highland Dance Competition is the perfect opportunity for performers to get a chance to showcase their talent at the Civic Centre, starting Saturday at 9 a.m.
The younger dancers compete in the morning and the senior and intermediate dancers enter the contest in the afternoon. There were about 80 area dancers last year and the numbers are expected to be the same this year.
"It was a really well attended event last year and the kids had a lot of fun," said Bonnie Leach, artistic director of Excalibur Theatre Arts and Dance Company that is hosting the contest. "It's been supported really well by the community, which is wonderful. People really want to see events where kids can showcase their talents and share with their families."
There is a live piper, Andrew Lee, from Vancouver who will accompany the dancers during their numbers.
Judging the Highland competition is Jennifer Thompson from Langley, who has been owner and principle teacher of the Celtica Highland Dance School for the last 28 years. Thompson has danced since she was four years old. Trained under Adeline Duncan, Thompson garnered national and North American championships, and is now a member of the Scottish Official Board of Highland Dancing adjudicators panel.
To keep things interesting and to match the wintery weather theme, competitors will participate in events like the Snowy Fling and the Frozen Sword dances.
"Just to tie it into the season and this year we'll be doing a few special events featuring Reels just to keep the focus on the Reel North theme," said Leach.
Excalibur Dance Shop will be on hand selling Scottish garb and gifts while there will be a silent auction fundraiser to help offset the costs for future competitions for the students.
Admission is $5 for spectators.
