Dancing Through Memories: The Surrey Festival of Dance Celebrates 60 Years of Talent and Tradition
The Surrey Festival of Dance holds a special place in the heart of dancer Alex Wong, who reminisces about his time performing at the festival as a child. The festival, celebrating its 60th anniversary, has been a platform for thousands of dancers, offering opportunities for performance, travel, competition, scholarships, and lifelong friendships. The event, founded in 1966, pays tribute to its late founders, Doreene Rowe and Eric Iggleden, in this year's festival guide.
Dancers from various divisions, including jazz, hip-hop, international, modern/contemporary, ballet, and tap/stage, will showcase their talents at the Surrey Arts Centre until April 22. Behind the scenes, Carol Girardi, a dedicated organizer for nearly 40 years, ensures the smooth running of the festival. Despite fluctuations in attendance over the years, the festival continues to attract participants from the region, providing them with the opportunity to perform on a grand stage for trophies, scholarships, and the sheer joy of dancing.
The festival holds sentimental value for many, as shared by volunteer Patty Halliday, who has been involved for 32 years. She recounts her initial involvement while pregnant with twins and the subsequent generations of her family volunteering at the event. The festival's history is reflected in the numerous trophies displayed, some dating back several decades. Alex Wong, now working in film and TV, takes a moment to appreciate the trophies bearing the names of past winners, including his own, and shares the nostalgia with his friends.
The camaraderie and support among the young performers at the festival are highlighted by heartwarming moments, such as a young tap dancer's emotional reaction to a performance mishap. The sense of community and encouragement among the participants adds to the special atmosphere of the event. As the festival continues to be a cherished tradition in April, volunteers like Carol Girardi and Patty Halliday play integral roles in its success, ensuring that dancers of all ages have the opportunity to showcase their talents and create lasting memories.
For those interested in experiencing the magic of the Surrey Festival of Dance, admission is $6 per day, with a daily schedule and further details available on surreyfestival.com. Don't miss the chance to witness the passion and dedication of dancers as they take the stage at this iconic event.