Delighting in Dance

Chantelle Gordon

Her name is Chantelle Gordon and she loves to dance.  Emmaus catholic college, year 7 student Chantelle, rarely walks without a spring in her step.

Chantelle feels she probably danced as a toddler, but it was when she’d had her sixth birthday that she started formal dance lessons.

“I’ve never really stopped since then!” She said, “It’s just such a part of my life”.

With a sister an accomplished vocalist and other members of her family engaged in different forms of music, it was natural for Chantelle to diversify her studies.

“Classical ballet, yes, I’ve done some of that but now I’m more involved with jazz, hip-hop and contemporary dance forms”.

Chantelle enjoys competitions and the challenges of formal dance exams.

“As I’ve completed many of the grade exams, I’m able to assist my dance teacher”, she explained, “and I think I’ll be able to combine performing and teaching as a possible career when I finish school”.

Being awarded first place in musical theatre at the recent suyt singing eisteddfod was an achievement Chantelle had worked hard to obtain.

“As well”, she said, “I had success with a first placing in jazz and second placing in both tap and hip-hop in the dancing eisteddfod”.

Asked about the demands of regular practice, Chantelle was firm in her reply.  “it’s just essential to do your dance routines and exercises everyday”, she said, “but I enjoy it so much and I like the challenge of preparing for performances, exams or eisteddfods.  My family has always encouraged me, and besides, I think dancing is the ideal way to keep fit”.

Chantelle’s performance at emmaus college in the recent music, art, drama and design night was enthusiastically received by the audience of parents, friends and fellow students.

“Next year though”, concluded the young performer, “I’ll be moving into open category contests which is much harder”

With her talent, enthusiasm and commitment she will no doubt face those challenges with confidence.