This year has been unconventional in more ways than one. As we head into the “most wonderful time of the year,” we are all again reminded of the many challenges of the pandemic. While staying home instead of gathering with extended family or visiting Santa will be a bummer this year, we are determined to still create some magic for the holidays in Augusta!
Here are 4 Ways That We Are Creating JOY This Holiday Season:
1. Nutcracker Tea at Dance Unlimited
The Nutcracker is every dancer’s FAVORITE holiday tradition. Because theatres and dance companies haven’t been able to host live performances due to COVID-19, it was the perfect year to enjoy this holiday tradition in a NEW way.
This past Saturday we hosted a Nutcracker Tea event for our dance families. This magical event included a Nutcracker inspired ballet class, crafts, and a tea party, all in a safe and healthy environment.
Click here to see some of the magic we captured at our Nutcracker Tea.
2. A Virtual Performance from our DUPC Dancers!
For 20+ years, Dance U has performed at the Augusta Holiday Tree Lighting to kick off the Holiday season. COVID-19 interrupted that tradition this year, but that doesn’t stop us from being innovative and taking advantage of every opportunity to perform! We have been hard at work rehearsing and filming our favorite holiday tradition, our HOT CHOCOLATE tap routine and added a new favorite – a variation of the Nutcracker’s Sugar Plum Fairy. We are so thankful to utilize the Colonial Theatre this year for filming during its restoration.
Click here to view our AMAZING performances from our DUPC dancers!
3. PJ Day Dance Challenge
Being thankful and giving back is such an important part of holiday magic! It reminds us that true holiday joy is about being kind, not presents and toys. So this year our dancers participated in the Pajama Day Dance Challenge to support Connecticut Children’s Medical Center.
In just two days, we were able to donate $500 dollars to the cause! And just because cancer doesn’t only happen in Connecticut, we have also made a $500 donation to the Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital right here in Maine! Click HERE to see our students’ challenge dance on Tik Tok and click HERE to contribute to this AMAZING cause!
4. Dance Unlimited Food Drive
One of the best ways to create joy both within ourselves, AND within the community is to help others in need. This year, more than ever before, families in our community are struggling. That’s why we have paired with some local businesses to create a food pantry project this year.
We are now accepting donations at the studio through December 15th. Drop off any non-perishable food item at the front desk! You can also make a financial donation which will be used to purchase items to donate. Thank you in advance for taking part in this special effort!
When looking for holiday joy during a pandemic, we couldn’t help but reflect upon what the season is really about. Presents are fun, visits with Santa are cute, and Christmas cookies are yummy. But spreading joy and love to others is what makes the season special.
The holidays in Augusta are going to look different this year, but just like the rest of the year, we are determined to make the best of the circumstances! Putting extra emphasis on giving back during a tough year has reminded us of how special our dance families are!
From all of us here at Dance Unlimited, happy holidays! May YOU continue to find JOY this season!