STARZ Company Presents "Peter Pan"

“Faith, trust, and a little pixie dust” will take center stage this weekend, as STARZ Theater Company brings one of the most celebrated musicals to life January 17-19 at the ENT Center for the Arts. STC will kick off its 12th season with J.M. Barrie’s classic “Peter Pan,” with performances guaranteed to take audiences from the “second star to the right and straight on 'til morning.”

 But before we take our seats for award-winning classics like "I'm Flying," "I've Gotta Crow," and "I Won't Grow Up," we caught up with STC Artistic Director Laura Bergen to see just what audiences can expect as they run away to Neverland.

 Turning Pointe Dance: Hey, Ms. Laura! STC last performed this show in 2019. What was behind the decision to return to Neverland?

 Ms. Laura Bergen: “We've been planning to bring this show back to the stage for quite some time. We LOVED the first time we performed Peter Pan Jr. in 2019 and I knew during that season that it would be one of the first I would want to repeat. The full-length production has more songs and expanded characters that bring so much life, humor and energy to the show! While this feels familiar, it also feels new!

 Another reason for our return to Neverland is that the show offers quite a bit of opportunity for speaking roles for younger and older students. Not something you see often in most musicals. Our program is in a different place now in Season 12 than we were in Season 6. When we first did Peter Pan Jr., we had our Starz Rizing (average ages 11-14) training division in place, but it wasn't until the next year that we launched our All-Starz (average ages 9-13) training division. Having a program at Starz that is scaffolded and helps train and develop our performers as whole-people while they lay a strong foundation in their theater skills has made a tremendous impact on our company. The training works! Over the last couple of years, we have been amazed as we've seen our students display a unique strength and readiness at younger and younger ages. We wanted to choose a show for our season that would allow opportunities for younger performers.”

 TP: The company has obviously come a long way in those six years! Besides younger readiness, what are some of the biggest differences you've seen, and how will this production be different as a result?

 LB: “The biggest difference I feel this time is how the company has grown over the last six years. When I had my first meeting at the ENT Center for our show they brought out a relic from the archives—our specs doc from our 2019 production. WOW! I was taken back by how much has changed since that time. In our 2018-2019 season we were a small creative team and a relatively small company, but we were united in a big goal: Helping students find their voice and tell their story through our season. During 2019, we had four people on our creative team and 50 performers in the cast. This season, there are nine people on the Creative Team, six Student Assistants, a cast of 96 and a student stage crew of 15!

 One thing that hasn't changed—we are still all united in our goal of finding our voice and telling our story. I love STARZ, and the size of the group has never impacted the dearness of our company, but it does change a few very practical/logistical aspects of the show (volume of sound, variety of characters, etc.) that audiences will notice within the show. We also have a few new ensemble groups with the addition of All-Starz and Starz Rizing to the mainstage show! 

 Fun fact: We have a few students in our cast and student assistant crew who were with us the first time we did Peter Pan Jr.! Two of them are seniors this year and the others aren't far from being seniors. That has been incredibly fun this season—reminiscing with them and enjoying all the memories we have from that first season as we work on the show together again.

 I'm so endlessly grateful for the many who have linked arms with and believed in STARZ over the years. It is a gift I do not take for granted!”

TP: Wow, you've now gotten to serve on the STC production team through both performances of this particular show! What's been your favorite part of working on Peter Pan?

 LB: “Well, I'm a boy mom x4 (and I have four brothers). So offer me a show with a lot of adventure, wild energy and battle scenes and I'm so IN! My boys and my brothers inspired a lot of the character choices you will see throughout. This story truly is one of my favorites, and I really do think it’s because of the youthful, playful and fun energy that is infused throughout. Each scene is just a joy to work on!

 Another thing I love about the full-length version of Peter Pan is the incredible amount of dancing involved in the show. We have so many different styles of dance and, because Peter Pan is a golden-age musical, we even have ballet.

 This show is also very special for me because Peter Pan Jr. was the first show I directed at STARZ, and my first large-scale directing project. To be back in the script and character has been such a fun and joyful process.”

 TP: So what can audiences expect to see and experience at a performance this weekend?

 LB: “A whimsical story filled with adventures and heartwarming moments. Iconic and memorable characters including Peter Pan, Wendy, John, Michael, Tiger Lily, Captain Hook & Smee! Stunning flying effects as we fly seven different performers throughout the show. An epic battle on a pirate ship between the pirates, the Lost Boys & Brave Girls. A gorgeous rented set from California for our Neverland scenes. Memorable songs and family-friendly humor and fun. We hope our audiences enjoy every minute!”

TP: STC's mission is to share the freedom of Christ's love, tell the redemption story, stir hearts to our Creator, and engage others in worship. How have you been able to experience the gospel through this story this season?

 LB: “One thing that I noticed right away when I was reading through the script was that in Peter Pan, every ensemble group is always together. The Lost Boys are always together, Pirates, together; Animals, together. Brave Girls, together. Community and commitment are a huge underlying tone in Neverland. We have spent this season focused on the same verse as Turning Pointe: "O Magnify the Lord with me and let us exalt His name together." Our devo times have been precious as we have been studying magnifying the Lord together through thanksgiving, praise and surrender. We have also pressed into the command in Proverbs of being committed to encouraging and supporting one another in our walks with the Lord "As Iron sharpens Iron." (Proverbs 27:17

For this show, we have also partnered with a ministry this season called Every Village. Every Village is a ministry that partners with the people of South Sudan to provide every village with sustainable access to safe water, healthy churches and the gospel by radio. Audience members can learn more about supporting the ministry in their efforts this weekend at the show. We will also have a representative from the organization coming to share a devo with students. You can learn more at https://www.everyvillage.org/!”

TP: Last but certainly not least, how can we come and see Peter Pan this weekend?

 LB: “You have five chances to see the show: Friday, January 17, at 6 p.m., Saturday, January 18, at 1 and 6 p.m., and Sunday, January 19, at 1 and 6 p.m. Saturday’s 1 p.m. show includes ASL access—meaning there will be students of the PPCC IPP Program providing ASL-Access for a reserved section of our audiences! These seats are marked in red on Saturday's box office. Saturday’s 6 p.m. show is STC Alumni Night, and on Sunday night, we’ll honor STC’s graduating seniors.

 Tickets and information are all available at https://www.starztheater.org/peterpan!”

Magnify Him Through: Surrender

There’s no better time to set new goals than a brand new year. There’s also no better time to check in on the ones you already set. Midterm grades are posted, and there’s just one semester left in the path toward academic goals. Recital choreography and progress reports are just around the corner, right alongside auditions and application deadlines.

 As we slowly settle back into the groove of routine this week, we’re already inundated with all the world’s noise as advertisement after advertisement pops up with the latest products and programs that promise to be the key to unlocking our resolutions. But whether you’re entering the new year with motivation or frustration, it’s important to remember that we’re not running this race alone—and believe me, this second semester always does feel like a race to the finish line. No matter your goals, as a studio this month, we’re learning to place those God-sized goals at His feet. This month, we’re kicking off 2025 by studying how to magnify Him through surrender.

 Surrender. Easier said than done, right? When life as we know it seems to turn page after page, right down to the calendar year, it’s hard to let go of what we know and what seems to be working for us. We often cling tightly to what we think is right, or the path we think is the quickest or best. But even in the midst of change, the Lord is the same yesterday, today, and forever. New year, new me—same God. The goals you’ve set for yourself this year? He knows them deeply. The challenges you’re staring down? He’s facing them right alongside you, the same way He stood with David to face Goliath. Now it’s up to us to surrender our goals and our plans to Him as we dance with abandon the same way David did in this month’s studio verse:

 “David danced before the Lord with all his might. And David was wearing a linen ephod. So David and all the house of Israel brought up the Ark of the Lord with shouting, and with the sound of the horn.”  — 2 Samuel 6:14-15

 There’s a lot to that word: Surrender. It’s not giving up. It’s not making a calculated sacrifice. It is, as the dictionary defines it, ceasing resistance to power, or submitting to authority. When David took up the Ark in his own way in 1 Chronicles, by his own rules, along the path he thought best, the Lord quickly made His power known. But when David surrendered his own will to the Lord, he gave Him authority over his life. He asked God for guidance and direction, and took up the Ark again according to God’s own instruction. And when he did, the people experienced joy, celebration, and God’s favor. You see, when we seek first His counsel, we are surrendering our plans to His, making way for great joy. American poet and writer Jackie Hill Perry said it best when she said, “There is nothing in your hands God won’t replace with more of Himself.”

 So what are you letting go of this year? Is it clinging to casting and roles or class placement as your only means of measuring growth or success? Is it your own timeline of advancement, comparing yourself to others in class or rehearsal, or measuring up to business models that aren’t yours? Maybe you’re not where you want to be just yet—or at least not where you saw yourself entering 2025 at the beginning of 2024. But in moments of frustration, you can choose to cling to the ideals of your own making and sit with the enemy in defeat, or you can surrender to the Lord in victory. As we do, our letting go is replaced by His lifting up. We humble ourselves before Him, and place our hearts at His feet the way David showed humility and took up the Ark once again. We’re not giving up. We’re giving everything to Him. We’re allowing His will to be magnified above our own. We’re making Him easier for others to see, because there’s no way we could walk this path on our own.

 As for our 2025 goals? We’re uniting hearts and turning eyes to the Lord as we build up leaders, provide excellence in dance and theater instruction, cultivate hearts of worship, and nurture each student’s creativity. Whether you’re joining us for the first time this semester (your last day to register is January 31!) or you’ve been a part of our studio family for the last 20 years, we’re here to help you go beyond technique to develop important life skills, like learning to be respectful and confident as you share the Lord through His gifts and talents in the community and beyond. This year, we invite you to know Him more deeply as you dive deeper in developing your technique and performance skills. We invite you to stay connected through our weekly emails, monthly newsletters, social media and right here on the blog. We invite you to experience the Turning Pointe difference in 2025!

Celebrate Nutcracker Season at Turning Pointe Dance

The Nutcracker is a treasured holiday tradition—especially in the world of dance! But did you know that 100 years passed between The Nutcracker’s stage debut and its success in the United States? Or that the New York Ballet’s Candy Cane costumes are adorned with 144 jingle bells each? Check out our five fun facts about the Nutcracker (along with five Nutcracker activities to try at home) here. Ready for more? Read on for all things Nutcracker, and how YOU can experience the Turning Pointe difference this holiday season.

Why We Love Nutcracker Season

The Nutcracker brings dance to the rest of the world—every single year! It’s no secret that it’s one of the most popular ballets on stage. An annual tradition for dancers and non-dancers alike, it wouldn’t be performed every year (and consistently sold out across continents) if it wasn’t! Not to mention the fancy wooden collectors items we see on store shelves year after year. And when all eyes are on ballet, it’s easy to share our love of dance, and the gifts and talents God gave us with others.

For many dancers, The Nutcracker is their first introduction to performance, and being part of a cast and production as opposed to a recital. With roles from party guests to angels and sweets (depending on the adaptation) up for grabs, it’s a great way to experience the audition process and the inner workings of theater, and be inspired to work your way up to a featured or soloist role.

For many spectators, The Nutcracker is their first introduction to the world of ballet. But with the elegance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, the intensity of the battle between soldiers and mice, the magic of the iconic snow scene, and the athleticism of the tricks showcased in the second act’s variations, it’s a world they won’t soon want to leave—or forget! The more people experience the magic of ballet, even one Christmas at a time, the more audiences will be inspired to join us in class and carry on this holiday showcase for years and years to come.

 Whether you’ve seen or danced in this classic Christmas tale for years, or this is the first season you’ve encountered the story, you’ll find your holidays just aren’t complete without a visit to the Land of Sweets. If you’re ready to experience the magic for yourself, here’s how you can join us in all the fun this month at Turning Pointe Dance…

Join us for A Nutcracker Sweet Workshop

Students ages 3-10 are invited to join us for our Nutcracker Sweet Workshop, this Saturday, December 14, from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Invite a friend and meet us at the studio for a re-telling of The Nutcracker story, dancing, crafts, a special tea party, dress up time, and a visit from the classic characters in costume for plenty of photos. We’ll dance like Nutcracker soldiers, snowflakes, and sugar plum fairies as we celebrate the most enchanting, well-known ballet of the Christmas season.

Don’t want the festive fun to end? Keep the celebration going (and give mom and dad some more uninterrupted holiday time!) at our Polar Express Parents Afternoon Out from 1:30-3:30 p.m.! We’ll get cozy in our favorite Christmas PJs for a pizza picnic, dance party, crafts and viewing of “The Polar Express.”

Register here, and register soon—Spots are filling fast, and you won’t want to miss the fun!

(Discounts are available for Turning Pointe students, and dancers who attend both events.)

Join us for Free Trial Week!

Did you or someone you know get hooked on The Nutcracker ballet this season? Free Trial Weeks are coming up December 16-21, 2024, and January 6-11, 2025! Try your hand in your first ballet class, or invite a friend to try their favorite Nutcracker moves in class with you.

 Don’t be shy—these are your final chances to try out a class before school-year session registration closes on January 31! Check out our 2024-25 school-year session schedule here, and descriptions of all our available classes here.

Magnify Him Through: Praise

‘Tis the season at Turning Pointe Dance! The lobby is festively decorated, and our classrooms and halls are filled with the joyful notes of carols and holiday hymns. Yes, the most magical time of the year is here, and this month, we’re focusing our hearts on the song that started it all—the song Mary sang that very first Christmas in Bethlehem:

“And Mary said, ‘My soul magnifies the Lord.’”   — Luke 1:46

 Mary’s diligent faith was rewarded with the honor of carrying a Savior, but it wasn’t an easy privilege to navigate. There was Joseph’s initial distress to consider, and the judgmental glances and accusations from others on top of the difficulties of carrying a child. But in this verse, Mary rejoices for the honor of her position, singing psalms of celebration as she marveled at the wonderful work of God.

While that situation was certainly unique, the same song can be sung by every one of us this very season. Our souls were meant to magnify the Lord. Our spirits rejoice in the Lord, because He has looked on each one of us with loving grace. He has forgiven our sins and given us eternal life and salvation through Jesus, born of Mary, and looked at our estates with favor and blessings. Not because of anything we’ve done, but because of who He is.

God looks upon us and pours out his mercy. So this month, we pour out our praise. Through each and every Christmas performance, we pray that He is seen and glorified in each note and movement. We’ll take to each stage, space and studio with the goal of making Him easier to see this season, above the hustle and bustle of the holidays. And we invite you to join the celebration as we live out our monthly devotional focus to magnify Him through praise!

Here’s how you can praise Him with Turning Pointe Dance this month:

Training Program Outreach
Join us in praying over the students in our Training Program, who will perform excerpts from The Nutcracker on Friday, December 6, for our neighbors at Brookdale Vista Grande. We’re so excited to visit and dance with their residents for the seventh-straight Christmas!

Jared Anderson’s Christmas This Year
Celebrate the season at four performances, December 7-8, at the ENT Center for the Arts. Turning Pointe students will share the stage with singers, songwriters and performers from across the state in a variety show that provides the opportunity to highlight the gifts and talents of those with Down syndrome and special abilities in our community. Tickets and information are available at ChristmasThisYear.org!

Village 7’s Christmas Concert
Come hear your favorite Christmas carols in the full range of styles including classical, jazz, pop, and gospel featuring our choir, orchestra, soloists, band, and dancers. There will also be a Christmas storybook reading, so be sure to bring the entire family!
December 6 & 7 | 6:30 p.m. | Free admission | Child care provided on December 6 ONLY
4040 S. Nonchalant Circle. Colorado Springs, CO 80917

 Christmas Peek Week
Come and watch your dancers magnify Him through praise during their classes December 9-14! For specific times and locations, check the schedule on our website, double-check your weekly emails for information, or inquire at the front desk.

Magnify Him Through: Thanksgiving

To magnify something is to increase it in size, status, or importance—to make it easier for all to see. Whatever is magnified consumes our gaze. So what’s consuming you? Is it holiday stress like budgets, gifts, travel or challenging family dynamics? Is it productions, auditions for programs and divisions, remembering your peek week choreography, or the looming possibility for 21 inches of snow? Whatever it is, it’s misguided worship. So how do we redirect? The psalmist makes it clear in this month’s studio verse: God is magnified with our thanksgiving.

“I will praise the name of the Lord with a song; I will magnify Him with thanksgiving” Psalm 69:30

Thankfulness magnifies the goodness of God in every aspect of life, and makes the abundance of a life lived with Christ easier for all to see. Romans 6:14 continues this devotional lesson, telling us that “sin will not have any dominion over us, because we are living under a revelation of thanksgiving unto all that God is and has done.” Our gratitude creates an unshakable awareness of who we are in Christ. Let’s let it consume us, leaving no room for selfishness and sin. Let’s use it to make His name known in our world. This week, as we close our doors and celebrate all that God has done with our families and loved ones, let’s pray over this month’s studio verse, and magnify Him through thanksgiving.

“I am thankful for Turning Pointe because it is the place where my passion for Jesus, my love for dance, and the joy in my purpose all unite! I also get to work with the most life giving, creative, and encouraging team that inspires me everyday!” —Tina Cook, Owner, Turning Pointe Dance

“I am so thankful the Lord brought me to Turning Pointe! I have felt so welcome here from the moment I first walked in and I LOVE having the privilege to teach each one of my classes!”- Christina Young, Turning Pointe teacher

“I’m thankful that Turning Pointe is an opportunity for me to use my gifts to serve the Lord.” —Ava Cross, Turning Pointe student teacher

“I’m thankful for Turning Pointe because there’s not just one worship class, but the whole studio and every class is based in worship. I’m so thankful for the community and the family I’ve made here.”- Ellie Mediavilla, Turning Pointe Level 4 student

“I'm thankful for Turning Pointe because it allows me to combine my faith and my passion for dance. I get to pour into students both ballet technique AND a love for the Lord, and that's a very special thing!” —Taylor Felker, Turning Pointe Training Division Director

 “I am so thankful for Turning Pointe Dance! It has been both an amazing place to teach, filled with wonderful students and kind parents. As well as a great place to send my daughters to learn to dance! They adore their teachers, their classes, and the other students. I am forever grateful for Tina and her courage in starting this studio!”  -Beth Jordahl, Turning Pointe teacher

 “I’m most grateful for Turning Pointe’s Christian atmosphere. When I moved to New York and tried to find a dance studio there was just nothing like it. It’s such a safe place where I can be myself. I can talk about my faith with other dancers. I don’t have to worry about costumes being too revealing or teachers that might put too much pressure on my body or myself emotionally.” —Emily McMillan, Turning Pointe student teacher

 “I’m thankful for Turning Pointe because I love my teachers, and because I get to watch the big girls dancing for Jesus.”- Kiera McKinnis, Turning Pointe Primary level student

“I’m thankful for Turning Pointe because I can learn to dance with Jesus, and it gives me the freedom to express my emotions and work through them.” —Jessica Heyler, Turning Pointe student and studio intern

“I am grateful that Turning Pointe is a place where all students are welcome and encouraged to grow!”- Sara Murdaugh, Turning Pointe teacher

 “I’m so thankful for Turning Pointe and the home it’s given me, and the safe space that it is to explore my faith in Jesus. It’s where I can learn how to worship Him and have a relationship with Him.” —Ella Cook, Turning Pointe student and Teaching Assistant

 “I love Turning Pointe because I get to learn cool stuff like leaping and dancing, and I get to play games and get a candy.”- Abby Jordahl, Turning Pointe Twirl Division student

 “I'm thankful for Turning Pointe Dance because of the opportunities afforded, the grace given, and the God-centered heart behind everything that's done.” —Jayce Davis, Turning Pointe hospitality team

“I love Turning Pointe because of the faith-based community, and because of the relationships and friendships I’ve gotten to have here.”- Rachel Tepley, Turning Pointe student and Teaching Assistant

“I’m grateful because, in a world where our confidence and sense of self is under attack, and it can be hard to find true friendships, Turning Pointe has given me a lot of sisterhood that I can really count on. It’s given me a way to love myself through dance, through loving other people, and through loving Jesus.” —Reagan Kantack, Turning Pointe Level 5 student

“I’m thankful for Turning Pointe because all of my friends are there, and I’m always happy to see them.”- Aven McKinnis, Turning Pointe Twirl Division student

“I love Turning Pointe because of the community, and the friends I’ve made here.”—Evie Smith, Turning Pointe Level 4 student

“I love Turning Pointe because of the amazing leaps, and I love the obstacle course. And I love getting tickets!—Lucy Jordahl, Turning Pointe Primary level student

Leaving a Legacy

Fidèle Youth Dance Company set to cap 11th season with original production: “Remain”

 Twenty-five hours in the theater; 116 hours in the studio. Twenty-nine cast members have rehearsed 12 scenes to 28 pieces of music, donning 30 custom-made costumes over a 17-week season, all to tell a story that demonstrates the nature of the one true King. This week, Fidèle Youth Dance Company culminates its 11th season of powerful stories with its first alumni-written production: “Remain,” coming to the Wasson Auditorium stage for three live performances November 16-17.

 “As with everything we do, we look to the King,” FYDC director Mimi McKinnis said. “Jesus is a masterful storyteller. His parables help us connect with and understand God in ways we never would have been able to otherwise, and it’s always my prayer that each one of our productions will do the same for the audience.”

 FYDC uses the arts to tell compelling stories, creating a legacy of gospel-driven theater through original, faith-based productions. And while each story strives to bring the messages of scripture to life, now, after 11 years on stage, the connections built through the company itself are telling their own stories—and impacting the stories of those who played a part—expanding the company’s legacy to a whole different level.

 “I always tell people about the ripple effect,” McKinnis said. “God tells us in Matthew that it only takes faith the size of a mustard seed for Him to move mountains. It only takes one person to touch the water and create the ripples. When we trust God with our efforts, it’s amazing to see what He can do through a few dozen teens in Colorado Springs. I’m so proud, not only of the stories we’ve produced over the last 11 years, but of the arts-based creators we’ve connected with, and the artists and creators whose stories we get to be a part of in some small way.”

 Last season, FYDC performed “Bring Her Home,” staging the first story in a series of three young adult novels by Australian author Hannah Currie, who journeyed to the United States for the first time to take in all three performances. Currie watched her story come to life on stage among crowds that rivaled the company’s highest attendance numbers, missing 2022’s success by less than 85 tickets. Less than a year later, “Hold Her Close,” the final book in the series, was published with a story thanks, in part, to Currie’s experience at the theater.

 “In performing ‘Bring Her Home,’ [the FYDC family] brought these characters to life for me in a way I couldn’t have imagined, and inspired me more than you’ll ever know,” Currie wrote in the book’s acknowledgements. “...No matter what, Rose’s story is deeper because of you.”

 Currie’s book wasn’t the only story close to the company to hit shelves this year. Former FYDC soloist Aquinnah Bree published her debut novel, “A Tempest of Roses,” over the summer, 10 years after dancing the lead in FYDC’s premiere season.

 “It’s such an honor to see the stories of those we share a connection with come to fruition, and amazing that we’ve been doing this long enough now that our alumni are writing their own stories on and off the stage,” McKinnis said. “I’ve always wanted to build a legacy of stories that allow others to see God’s promises come to life through the arts, but to see a new generation of Christian artists rise up and use their gifts with the same mission at heart is truly inspiring. The way God moves in the ripples never ceases to amaze me.”

 In addition to dance performance (three of FYDC’s alumni are currently touring and training with Dance Revolution/Ingredients Dance Company), this year’s production is a testament to more of the company’s own artists, written by FYDC alumni Jayce Davis, then created and choreographed by Davis with McKinnis and fellow FYDC alumni-turned-staff member Abbie Van Horn.

 “Remain” tells the story of a kingdom, united before falling into indifference, then broken when its people place new and exciting travelers above their king’s reign. As members of the kingdom fall in line and cling to their overlord of choice, division runs rampant. But a group of villagers remain steadfast in faith, serving their king and calling for his return. Through the production, McKinnis hopes this first-of-its-kind story continues to create ripples in His name.

 “It’s been a blessing to watch these students take the inspiration the Lord planted during their time dancing with FYDC, and a privilege to encourage them in their gifts as they guided this project from start to finish,” she said. “As we prepare to tell another powerful story on stage, I hope and pray that our audience is encouraged to portray the faithful members of their own stories, and that they will see that the Lord remains through each and every chapter.”

 You can come see “Remain” live on stage for three live performances at the Roy J. Wasson Auditorium (2115 Afton Way):

 Saturday, November 16: 2 p.m.
Saturday, November 16: 6 p.m.
Sunday, November 17: 2 p.m.

 Tickets and information are available at FideleYouthDanceCompany.com!

Why We Wear Costumes: Experience the Turning Pointe Difference

“Clothes make a statement. Costumes tell a story.”

 While that might just be another one of Mason Cooley’s witty aphorisms, he does have a point—especially when it comes to theater and dance. Costumes play an important part on the stage, helping to enhance the visual appeal and narrative of a performance. Costumes can be used to convey the mood, style, and theme of a dance, as well as distinguish between different characters or groups within a performance. They are meant to complement the song, scene or piece, and create uniformity among the dancers. Simply put, costumes bring the entire dance to life!

 While most instructors and choreographers choose costumes that enhance the performance, fit with the theme of the dance, and do not hinder the dancer’s movement, at Turning Pointe Dance, we also strive to weave our mission and values into every stitch and seam. When STARZ Theater Company performed Walt Disney’s “Newsies” in 2020, each costume was custom made to echo the look and feel of the original Broadway version, with Kelly’s signature blue featured alongside counterpart Katherine Plumber’s classic pink ensembles. When Fidèle Youth Dance Company staged “The Pilgrim’s Progress” in 2022, they intentionally used color to show the audience which characters represented members of God’s Kingdom within the famous allegory.

 And it doesn’t stop with our performance companies!

Our teachers are trained in recital expectations that ensure each choice combines art and faith to produce something that will change lives and hearts—from our advanced and adult classes to our youngest Twirl dancers receiving a costume for the very first time. They’re given guidelines for affordable pricing and styling standards to carefully choose costumes that are age appropriate, beautiful but appropriately modest, and fun costumes that both parents and children love.

 As we wear costumes to class this October 28-November 2, remember: We’re not just doing it for fun (even though it is pretty fun). We’re practicing a performing art! We’re learning about costumes, and why they’re important to dance. We’re teaching the significance of costumes in the history of dance, and how costumes can translate the meanings of the dances we study, practice and see. We’re  building confidence dancing in costumes, and working toward our ultimate goal of shining His light with a complete and polished performance this spring.

 Feeling a little lost in the recital costume process? Even though recitals are still several months away, the process actually gets started in just a few short weeks! Here are a few reminders as we head into the holidays:

 Note: All costumes ordered after December 1 have an additional $10 late order fee.

Opting Out of Recital
Students wishing to opt out of the recital should submit a written request to the office prior to November 30, 2024.

Costumes
Changes in a student’s schedule can result in a change of costume and costume fees. A student’s costume amount includes costume and tax. For male dancers, the teacher will discuss with the dancer’s parents what attire is to be worn for the performance. All other classes will have one costume per class. All costume fees are due December 1, 2024.
Our class drop/add period ends December 1, 2024. Dancers who wish to change classes after that date must purchase an additional costume.

Costume Distribution
Dancers will receive their costume(s) the week after Spring Break. Spring Peek Weeks are a great opportunity to see your dancer practice in costume and video the recital routine for at-home practice!

Exchanges
Costumes may be exchanged for size (depending on availability) and the cost is $8.00 per exchange. It’s important that parents come into the studio November 11-23, 2024, to double-check their child’s sizing, as the sizes are computer generated to help avoid sizing issues.

Refunds
After December 1, 2024, costumes are non-refundable and non-transferable. A student who withdraws from a class after purchasing a costume may pick up the costume between May 1-25, 2025. Costumes not picked up by then will be donated.

Magnify Him Through: Leadership

Did you know that music, singing, instruments and dancing are mentioned more than 400 times throughout the Bible? Did you know that it all started with Miriam? Sure, Deborah’s song in Judges 5 is one of the most well-known songs in the Old Testament, but she wasn’t the first to sing a song of victory to God. Miriam began that tradition after the crossing of the Red Sea in Exodus 15, and in fact, every subsequent verse that describes women going out to sing and dance in victory reflects back to her. With more than 400 instances in the scriptures, it’s clear her actions left quite a legacy. They say it only takes one person to cast the stone that creates ripples across the water. This month at Turning Pointe Dance, we’re studying how we can create the ripples that magnify Him.

 “Then Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women went out after her with tambourines and dancing. And Miriam sang to them: ‘Sing to the Lord, for He has triumphed gloriously; The horse and his rider He has thrown into the sea.’” Exodus 15:20-21

 A victory dance isn’t anything new. After all, when something good happens, the natural human reaction is to celebrate. We see it in sports, TV and movies, and even in video games. But when you dance in the victory over circumstances in your life, because of the price Jesus paid for us, our movements mean so much more. John 10:10 tells us He came that we may have life, and have it to its fullness. And when we’re filled with the fullness of God, we express that fullness outward, in every step at every class in our studio. We don’t “dance like nobody's watching,” but rather for an audience of one, rejoicing in the freedom of our victory in Jesus, just as Miriam did. David danced before the Lord with all his might, and in 2 Samuel 6:21, he said, “I was dancing before the Lord, who chose me … He appointed me as the leader of Israel, the people of the Lord, so I celebrate before the Lord.”

 At Turning Pointe Dance, our appointed leaders are more than teachers. They’re mentors and leaders first, leading with love through Biblical principles. They strive to be intentional and experienced, trusted advisors. They’re encouraged and trained not to ask “will I reap a harvest,” but “have I sown any seeds today?” They develop their students by educating and helping others acquire knowledge as role models and community builders. They are background checked and CPR certified, with directors earning additional certifications through the Youth Protection Association for Dance. More than that, they use Christian and inspirational music that fits the wholeness of our endeavor, and the culture we are trying to create—which reaches beyond just dancing. They carefully choose costumes that are age appropriate, beautiful and appropriately modest, and their choreography is appropriate for audiences and dancers of any age. They are chosen to lead by example, and to magnify Him through leadership in their classes.

 That’s why Turning Pointe dancers go beyond technique to develop important life skills including learning to be respectful and confident, and share their gifts and talents with the community and beyond, all rooted in faith, with mentors who replant the “why” of our dancing within them. We dance because Miriam danced. We dance in the victory of our King. Our students also have the opportunity to step into leadership in their own right, receiving training and experience in a uniquely Christ-centered environment. The Turning Pointe Dance Teacher’s Assistant and Internship Program trains future leaders to provide basic classroom assistance to teachers and studio management as they serve, observe, and are examples themselves to younger students.

 Psalm 78:72 says “David shepherded [his people] with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them.” As we continue to study the role of leadership within our communities this month, and how that task can make the Lord easier to see, we will continue to instill a love of God and a love of the arts in each student, connecting the foundations of their technique to the Biblical principles they’re founded upon. We’ll continue our 20 year commitment to serve as effective leaders, and study how leadership reflects the ways of God and the person of Christ. Thank you to the families of our 2024-25 season for trusting us with your training, and being a part of the Turning Pointe Dance family!

TP Top 3: Ways to Celebrate Your Student

It’s been an amazing first month of classes, and we can’t wait to show you what we’ve been working on in the studio! But first, let’s talk about the “why.” Research shows that showing up consistently for your child instills a sense of self-worth and confidence. As they grow, they internalize this positive self-image, leading to a more optimistic outlook on life. They are more likely to approach challenges with resilience and view setbacks as opportunities for growth. More than that, we’re working to instill a love of dance and equip our students with grit, grace, and gratitude for the arts and for His Kingdom. So before we gather to celebrate the progress being made and the skills being learned in each class, here are our top three ways to celebrate your student, and experience the Turning Pointe difference!

1. Acknowledge the Purpose of Performance

 The power of performance is a big deal when you’re learning a performing art. Who doesn’t love wearing costumes and showing your friends and family what you’ve learned? But in order to experience the Turning Pointe difference, it’s important to understand our purpose for performance—and encourage your student to do the same!

 At Turning Pointe, we dance for a greater purpose. Luke 1:46 reminds us of our studio-wide focus this season: “My soul magnifies the Lord.” We hope that all our dancers will be big lights that shine for Jesus. We want to glorify God through our bodies with dancing and present the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

 When researchers Bruce Brown and Rob Miller asked college athletes what their parents said that brought them joy when they played sports, the responses were all the same. It wasn’t praise like “you’re an all-star,” or anything constructive like “here are a couple of things I noticed that you can work on.” What stuck with them the most was when their parents said six simple words: “I love to watch you play.” In our case, we love to watch our students dance. We want our students to hear that doing what they do, and learning about who God created them to be, is a joy to watch as it unfolds.

 So rather than building pressure, aggrandizing class placement or providing any constructive criticism, we encourage you to show up for your students and delight in the Lord right along with them—we’ll even give you plenty of chances! In addition to our spring recitals and acting/vocal showcase, we invite families to join us for three annual Peek Weeks, when parents can sit in on the last 10 minutes of class to see what their students have been working on. All of our students will practice performing and their families will celebrate with them. But more than that, our mission at Turning Pointe will be fulfilled and the heart of God will be blessed and pleased.

 Here are this season’s chances to watch your student shine:

 ●      Fall Peek Week: October 7-12 (unless otherwise communicated by your teacher)

●      Christmas Peek Week: December 9-14 (unless otherwise communicated by your teacher)
●      Spring Peek Week: March 31-April 5 (unless otherwise communicated by your teacher)

2. Encourage their Progress

 Did you know most of our classes follow a carefully-constructed curriculum? A well-designed curriculum plays a significant role in helping teachers reach the end goal of growth in their students, and provides structure, support, and consistency throughout the studio. But there’s another benefit specific to Turning Pointe Dance: The unified glorification of God in the lives of our students.

 While the curriculum for each genre provides a foundation of clear and specific standards, and an accessible pathway of progression, students are also introduced to the person of Jesus through studio-wide devotions and gospel–centered classes. They’re also working toward proficiency in five separate targets, which include things like etiquette, performance quality, creativity/composition, and connections to historical context, cultural influence, and Christian engagement within the dance space.

 In other words, our students are learning so much more than plies, and progress in all areas of their growth should be encouraged and celebrated! Sure, nailing their first pirouette in a performance is a big deal, but so is waiting appropriately for their turn, correctly identifying different styles or techniques, or even smiling and remembering all their steps. We’re working to cultivate hearts of worship, nurture creativity, and allow students to flourish in their gifts, equipped to go into every man’s world by training the whole person body, mind, and spirit. Our dancers go beyond technique to develop important life skills including learning to be respectful and confident, and share their gifts and God-given talents with the community and beyond.

 Of course skill development is an important part of every class and curriculum, but we see progress in so many different areas in each student. Join us in watching intentionally, and celebrating the improvements made in every area after each performance and Peek Week!

3. Provide Pathways for Growth

 If your student is truly finding joy in dance, adding another class might be just the ticket to enrich their experience. Who knows—maybe their favorite style of dancing is one they haven’t tried yet! Trying new genres will not only provide additional practice time in the studio, it also gives students a chance to learn from more teachers, make new friends across classes, and have the opportunity to do more of what they love in a safe and Christ-centered training environment. The best part? It’s not too late! You can add classes to your registration until January 31. Turning Pointe Dance also offers two free trial weeks, where students can try any age and level-appropriate class for free—just check in with the front desk first! Your next opportunity to try a class with your friends, or experience something new, free of charge: 

 ●      Bring a Friend Week: October 14-19

●      Free Trial Week: December 16-21

●      Free Trial Week: January 6-11, 2025

Magnify Him Through: Community

Turning Pointe Dance is proud to look different from other dance studios in Colorado Springs. Afterall, as followers of Christ, we’re called to look different from the world, that the Holy Spirit might be seen in and through us. That’s why we choose music that fits the wholeness of our endeavor and the culture we are trying to create which reaches beyond just dancing. It’s why we carefully choose costumes that are age appropriate, beautiful but appropriately modest, yet fun that both parents and children love. It’s why our choreography is appropriate for audiences and dancers of any age and our professional staff members are great role models for students.

 More than that, it’s why each of our dance classes incorporates prayer and a verse of the month, keeping the focus of class time on the Lord. This year, our studio is working to magnify Him, and make Him easier to see in our classrooms, on recital and production stages, in our city, and beyond. This month, we’re learning to do that through building community:

 “Oh magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together!”   — Psalm 34:3

Throughout the New Testament, we see many different metaphors used to help us understand our life in Christ. We’re called a child in a family, a branch on a vine, a stone in a building, and a part of a body. Sensing a theme? We’ve been made new in Christ, washed by the blood of the Lamb. And as members of a saved community, we’re not called to worship the Lord in the isolation of our own hearts. Just like the metaphors above imply, a strong community is needed to give ourselves (and others) a complete picture of God. A building needs every stone. We need every ingredient to reach success, and we need other believers—lifting different voices to the Lord—to walk in faith beside.

Year after year, when we ask our students to share their favorite parts of a dance year, or favorite memories from class, it’s never the steps or the choreography that make the list. Instead it’s the friendships—the bonds that transcend the studio walls and the relationships that encouraged them in their journey to Jesus—that come front and center. We’ve been made new in Christ, washed by the blood of the Lamb. Our community should look different. It should hold its members accountable for pointing others to Him.

Experience the Turning Pointe Difference: Building Community Within the Studio
Studies show it takes parents, teachers and students six full weeks to get into a solid routine at the start of the year—and those first few weeks can be pretty overwhelming! But just like joining a small group at church, building your unique community at Turning Pointe can be SO beneficial—even if it feels like another obligation. Small groups that meet regularly tend to form deeper relationships, and members of these groups offer each other support and encouragement in their journeys. They encourage deeper community and accountability within the church and studio, and develop leaders that can help grow our mission to magnify Him.

While we encourage all of our students, staff and families to be intentional in building relationships, and being sensitive to the needs of others in our dance classes, here are a few other ways to build your own Turning Pointe community:

●      Come to a camp, event or workshop! Outside of regular classes, Turning Pointe hosts annual special events like the Mother/Daughter Tea, Daddy/Daughter Dance, Nutcracker Workshop and Parent’s Afternoon Out. These events are usually broken into smaller groups, and allow participants to connect with each other as they connect with new teachers and other Turning Pointe families. Did we mention they’re one-time, low commitment opportunities? (No weekly class or recital performances here!)

●      Audition for a company or program! Alongside our enrichment curriculum, Turning Pointe Dance offers plenty of opportunities to advance your skills and resume through some amazing pre-professional companies and programs, all of which serve as their own small group of like-minded believers on a mission to magnify the Lord.

Interested in studying Classical Ballet? Find community in our Training Division or Cecchetti syllabus classes! Love Musical Theater? Build friendships on stage and off with STARZ Theater. If you’re interested in growing as a storyteller in dance performance, join Fidèle Youth Dance Company’s community next season, and apply for the FYDC Mission Team for your chance to spread the gospel through dance throughout our city and state, and in El Salvador over Spring Break 2026.

●      Participate in Monthly Outreach! At Turning Pointe Dance, we’re proud of the gospel-driven community we’ve developed over the last two decades. Through it, we’re dedicated to blessing our city, and strive to magnify Him through the community we’ve built. That’s why we commit to outreach and service projects every single month! Because the Lord has called all believers to be active "priests" … To represent God to other people in witness and service, and to represent other people to God in prayer.

This month’s project: Did you know September is Hunger Action Month? As we head into a new dance year, we're striving to honor last season's commitment to give from AbunDance. Join us as we partner with Care and Share Food Bank for Southern Colorado and make a non-perishable food donation in our lobby all month long!

Have a partnership or initiative opportunity? Reach out to teacher.turningpointedance@gmail.com, then put "Ms. Mimi" in the subject line!

Ready to go deeper into the Turning Pointe Dance community? Keep an eye on the monthly newsletter and Weekly Wednesday communication for ways you can help and engage throughout the 2024-25 dance year. We’ll highlight audition and performance opportunities, upcoming events, and all the details for that month’s outreach initiative.