INNISFAIL – Local families didn’t have to go far to experience the joy of the Happiest Place On Earth.
Joy’s School of Dance presented its second annual Princess Tea at the Innisfail Library/Learning Centre on March 2. And the magic from the iconic characters of Disney was front and centre.
“I’m hoping that anyone that comes today, whether it’s a young prince or a princess, that they take away a magical experience,” said Jade Grimes, dance instructor with Joy’s School of Dance. “(The Princess Tea) gives the girls a really great chance to perform for the community.”
Dancers dressed up as Disney-themed servers and Disney princesses, including much-loved characters from movies such as The Little Mermaid, Mary Poppins, Cinderella, Snow White, Alice In Wonderland and Frozen, among others.
Jennifer Hendrick returned to the event for a second year with her daughter Carina and her friend Brielle Van Otterloo.
“It’s amazing. The girls had a fantastic time last year,” said Hendrick. “It’s great family fun. The dancers do such an amazing job. They are so talented and they look fabulous.”
Grimes noted the work involved in putting on the Princess Tea.
“They’ve been working on this for probably the last three weeks on everything from costumes to (dance routines),” she said.
A total of 30 dancers participated in the Princess Tea this year, along with several parent volunteers, noted Joy McIlwain, owner of Joy’s School of Dance.
The two-hour event included both individual and group performances, noted Grimes, adding the Princess Tea was also a fundraiser to help raise money for upcoming Disney trips for dancers.
In addition to enjoying tea with Disney princesses and watching performances, families also played Disney-themed games and took part in crafts.
“Each table has their own set of crafts for their princess,” said Grimes. “They get to take the craft home with them too.”
The Princess Tea was a great way to give back to the community and also helps inspire young dancers for their future Disney trip, noted Grimes.
“They’ve (the dancers) done a lot of research on their characters and their movies. I think it really inspires them and helps bring their characters to life,” Grimes concluded.
