On the toes
Teams from the region will participate in the first-ever Des Moines Dance Off to be held June 13 and 20 at Prairie Meadows
The hype around reality television programs such as “So, You Think You Can Dance,” “America’s Next Best Dance Crew” and “Dancing with the Stars” continues to increase with more shows being created. Much of the talent showcased on television takes place far from the Midwest, but that will change soon. Talent from the region will compete for $2,500 in cash prizes in the first-ever Des Moines Dance Off — a regional dance competition for all ages — on June 13 and 20 at Prairie Meadows.
“It’s interesting to see how dance has become so mainstream over the past few years,” said Katherine Harrington, board president of Ballet Des Moines. “The Des Moines Dance Off will be a way to bring together talent not just from Iowa, but outside the state, too.”
To date, approximately 250 individuals, along with numerous teams and groups, have registered for the event, which is open until May 31. Salsa, break dancing, ballet, tap and lyrical are just a few styles of dance that will be showcased. Harrington says the event will offer 70 different acts with dancers from more than 20 studios involved.
“Although the event hasn’t happened, we’ve already surpassed our goal for participation,” said Harrington, a former ballerina. “We hope this is something that we can look forward to for many years.”
For those looking for a career in dance, the Des Moines Dance Off is the perfect opportunity to show off the many hours spent practicing. That’s the case for Melissa Able, a junior from West Des Moines Valley who plans to become a professional ballet dancer.
“I believe it’s going to be a great experience because many of the performances I do currently involve mostly people from around the area,” Able said. “This is an opportunity to also see other dancers from outside central Iowa.”
Next month’s event is just a small step for Able as the dancer will spend her senior year of high school studying at the world-renowned University of Music and Performing Arts in Munich, Germany. Able received the scholarship to the University from the Youth America Grand Prix, the world’s largest student ballet competition that awards more than $250,000 annually. Able intends to return to Valley to graduate with her classmates next spring.
“It’s a great honor and opportunity to learn at the university,” Able said. “I would love to have a career in dance, and these are just a few small steps in helping me achieve my goal.”
Harrington says having individuals like Able and others who are involved in the Ballet Des Moines’ Ballet II program will help spread the word about dance.
“I’ve never seen talent like this in my life, especially in a smaller community,” she said. “It’s amazing credibility. The talent we have here is exquisite and something that is really special.”
Although participation numbers have yet to be finalized, a select number of performers will also dance at the finals on June 20. Mediacom plans to broadcast the finals event at a later date. During the broadcast, viewers will also have the opportunity to vote for their “Fan Favorite.”
Proceeds from this year’s event will benefit Ballet Des Moines as it hopes to possibly hire full-time dance instructors. Ballet Des Moines, which is located in East Village, is a non-profit organization, and Harrington says every little bit helps.
“We’re extremely excited for the Dance Off as it brings in a lot of talent,” Harrington said. “The proceeds will help support the organization so we can launch a company that can call Des Moines home.” CV
Caption: Register for the Des Moines Dance Off at www.desmoinesdanceoff.org.
