Hi Team and Happy New Year!!!

Below are several important updates as we head into this part (and most exciting) part of our season. Please read carefully and reach out if you have questions.

FRIENDS & FAMILY SHOWCASE

Rehearsals: February 27 & 28Showcase: February 28Location: Ottawa Auditorium301 S Hickory, Ottawa

Detailed schedules will be sent next Friday.

BIG/LIL DANCE BUDDIES

This year, we’re introducing a fun new twist on our Big/Lil program! Dancers have been paired to help build connection, encouragement, and support throughout the season.

To keep things simple and consistent, everyone will follow the same themed gift guidelines for each event. Each gift is meant to be small but meaningful...focused on thoughtfulness, positivity, and team spirit rather than cost. Creativity and personal touches are encouraged.

We will hold a 15–20 minute team-building activity and gift exchange on the Wednesday before each competition. Please make every effort to attend, as this is an important part of team bonding and preparation for the competition weekend. Being present helps ensure no dancer is left without their buddy.

Gift Themes by Event(No gift exchange for Groove and Showbiz, as the full team does not attend these events.)

• Friends & Family – Cards and CandyA handmade card paired with a candy treat

• Dance Out – Sips and SmilesA drink of choice with a happy or encouraging note

• Precision Arts – Munchies and MotivationsA snack or treat paired with your favorite motivational quote

• Turn It Up – Sweets and SocksA candy treat and a pair of fun socks

Attached you will find:• A list showing Big/Lil pairings• A separate spreadsheet with dancers’ favorites to help guide gift choices

This format allows everyone to participate in a unified and meaningful way while still leaving room for personality and creativity. We’re excited to see the connections, smiles, and memories made this season.

NEW SCHEDULE

When we return from winter break, we will be starting a new schedule.

We found that 20-minute rehearsals were not sufficient for many routines, so most rehearsals have been extended to 30 minutes. A few routines will remain at 20 minutes, as that timing has been working well for them.

There may be some overlaps between routine rehearsals and technique classes. We are aware of these overlaps, so there is no need to notify us.

• Please attend your routine rehearsal as scheduled• Join as much of your technique class as possible• If you notice an overlap between two routines, notify us immediately so we can adjust

Reminder: Hip Hop Technique is listed as “optional,” but it is mandatory for dancers competing in a Hip Hop routine.

Thank you for your flexibility as we make these necessary adjustments.

DE TEAM COMMITMENT

We are officially in the final stretch. ONLY 8 rehearsals remain until the Friends & Family Showcase. Let’s make them count!

As discussed in the August team meeting, from January through May, DE Team commitments must be your top priority. We do our best to work around other activities when possible; however, during this period, excused absences are limited to illness only.

Attendance expectations:• Missing two rehearsals will result in an understudy stepping in• If no understudy is available, the routine will be re-blocked or a gap will be left• Missing two technique classes will result in Erin determining which dance(s) your understudy will cover and for which competitions

OPEN STUDIO TIME

We’ve added open studio time at no cost for dancers to use as extra practice.

A teacher will be present to monitor the space and assist with questions. No sign-up is required—just drop in.

Please note:• This operates like an open gym• Dancers should plan to work independently• Earbuds and personal devices are required if specific music is needed

Open Studio Schedule

Monday• 9:00–9:15 – Studio A• 9:15–9:30 – Studio D

Wednesday• 9:00–9:30 – Studio C• 9:30–10:00 – Studio B

Thursday• 8:45–9:00 – Studio A• 9:15–9:30 – Studio E• 9:15–9:45 – Studio D (mats available)• 9:30–10:00 – Studio C

Thank you for your continued commitment, flexibility, and support. We’re excited for what’s ahead and proud of the work this team is putting in!

Blessings,

connie