In the first half Emily performed in her three groups - one lyrical, one jazz, and one tap. She loves her lyrical and jazz and they are great dances! Tap is where she struggles most, and she was placed in a group where she is the oldest, so she feels it is "kiddish". It's been a struggle, and I keep hoping she turns her mindset around, but at this point I'm not optimistic. I have to say the Junior Tap costumes are so much better than the Teen Tap costumes, so that is a win for her! See, cute costume!
Her groups looked great, I think my favorite is her lyrical group to "I Found". I am amazed at the growth I have seen in Emily this year and her groups really show that. She is 13, and this is her first year as a Teen. She has really stepped up and embraced it and it is showing on stage.
The second half of the Prevue Show is when Emily performed her solo and trio. Trio went on first. It was a good run. Her trio partners are brand new to the Company and they look and dance well together. After Trio, I left the theater to make a quick hair change for her solo. She thought it was a good run also, but focused on a bobbled triple pirouette.
Solo was up next. Another good run. I have to admit that I was holding my breath the entire time - last year at Nationals, she left the stage during her solo due to a blank out. She expressed that this was on her mind the past few weeks. Her teacher has been working with her on overcoming this stress and lack of confidence and I think it is working.
Below are some photos from the Show. I rely on other parents to share photos with me. We are lucky that we have a handful of parents who shoot almost everyone at recitals and competitions (where allowed). What struck me most about these photos is how much Emily has grown! She really hasn't stopped growing the past four years - look at those arms and legs!
 |
| Shot from "Wasting My Young Years" Trio |
Her solo is "A Million Years Ago" by Adele. I wanted a sophisticated costume, something Adele would wear, and I think we achieved that. Best part is, this is a hand-me-down and when I asked the mom how much she wanted for it, she said just take it. 💙
First competition in three days!
