By Cambria Roth
The music cues, the spotlight shines, and the Silverton High School Dance team takes the floor. With focus and style they execute a carefully choreographed routine.
Many of these dancers have been dancing since they were small and have formed close friendships. The team’s seniors are Bailey Bersin, Miranda Duerst, Maddie Golden, Alanna Henry and Mirabai Miller. They have danced with one another for at least 5 to 6 years and their dedication is why the team is so successfully.
“I’ve been dancing since I was 3 years old because my mom wanted something to keep me busy. I just have kept it up for 14 years,” Henry said. “I like how dance keeps me in shape, but I really love the other girls at the dance studio.”
The 10-11 hours per week each dancer practices is one indicator of how they make dance a top priority.
“I love dance because it’s a different way for me to express myself. I love being around all the girls since I’ve known them for so long and we’ve formed friendships,” Golden said.
The dancers perform at high school pep assemblies, basketball games, competitions and a dance recital. Miller has been involved in dance for 14 years.
“Dance is not just a hobby to me, it’s a lifestyle. I have fun being involved and competitive,” Miller said. Last year, the team placed third in state in Jazz at the OSAA Dance and Drill State Championships.
“We spend all of our time together, memorizing dances, improving our technique and performing,” Miller said. The team will compete at Canby High School Jan. 30 and encourages supporters to attend.
“It really is a lot of fun to watch and we always love to have people we know in the audience. It makes us feel good.” Golden said.
