El Salvador 2019 - Day Two - Zip Line Review

Our second day on the field was spent investing in each other. Most of our ministry is conducted at schools and churches- neither of which are running on a Saturday! We talked as a team about how our job is to serve our contacts, and part of that is being in agreement with them and the itinerary they set for us. We were able to give our translators the Saturday off to be with their families, and also love on M and J, who are Wally and Judy’s grandchildren. We also discussed the fact that our long term missions field is with each other. When we leave the field, we still have each other to invest, love, and serve with.

We drove about 2 hours out of San Salvador to Apaneca, a town up the mountains full of coffee plantations! We went ziplining over the coffee plantations, partially in the rain- see the team member videos below to hear their thoughts!

Afterwards, we went to La Pampa, a local restaurant, for lunch. The team tried some adventurous foods, like fried yucca and grilled rabbit, before heading back to the hotel to spend some time in prayer and journaling. We feel so ready and equipped to hit the ground running again and serve well!

Love, Team El Salvador

El Salvador 2019 - Day One - Crocodile Chronicles

Wow! Today was our first full day in San Salvador, and we hit the ground running! Our travel day yesterday was so smooth. Our team did a great job of sticking together, looking out for each other, and traveled like pros. We landed in San Salvador around 8:30 last night, made it to our hotel, and settled in for the night.

We started this morning off with breakfast as a team. We enjoyed a meal of eggs, beans, and fried plantains, and shared in a devotional time with our team leaders. Already our team is becoming incredibly close and connected, and being in fellowship together has been so good.

From the hotel we headed to a high school in San Salvador. This school is focused around vocational training- students were studying to be mechanics, computer scientists, and electricians. We were very fortunate to have a stage space to perform on, and a small back hallway to use as a changing room. After dropping our stuff and changing into our first costume, we set off to engage with the waiting students.

Our team is being accompanied by an awesome team of translators who work with Amazing Love Missions.  We are so fortunate to have them! Their hearts for the Lord and for this country are so beautiful.

“I think what most impacted me today was all the nice people. Even though we didn’t speak very much Spanish, they still helped us communicate. We also got to know one of the translators and that was awesome because we were able to relate to her.” -Sarah

We performed our program once through, then had an opportunity to pray over the principal of the school and hear from him. This man is so passionate about his students and his school, and was eager to share about it with us! After lunch, he took us on a brief tour of the school and to see the school band perform. They were awesome! We also got to meet the school mascot- a pet crocodile.

“(It was really cool) just seeing how proud of his students the principal was. He was so willing to build relationship with us, too.

I was also able to dance with some of the students during the crowd participation number. It was so cool to get to dance with people from all different backgrounds and know that we were able to understand each other through movement.” -Emmy

After lunch, we headed back to the performance space for another round with a new group of students. This group was so energetic and engaged with us, and we really enjoyed performing for them. At the end, the pastor of a local church who runs outreaches at this school prayed over our team, we said our goodbyes, and we headed out.

“During the first performance, I noticed that I personally didn’t feel as connected to the students and the Lord. But the second time around, I realized we were praying on the side more intensely- we really wanted to make an impact on these kids lives, and I felt the difference in the performance. So I guess [I just realized] the power of prayer and how it impacted our performance.” -Ally

Upon arriving back at the hotel, we had some time to put our things away and talk through the day together. Then, Moriah and Tina took us on a surprise walk to the El Salvador World Trade Center, which is only a couple city blocks from our hotel. We got some ice cream at Boston, a popular ice cream shop. We tried some unique flavors, like Tamarindo, then spent some time exploring the center.

We walked back to our hotel and arrived to a homemade taco dinner, brought to us by our contacts, Wally and Judy Cook. They take such good care of us! We enjoyed fellowship and food together, then finished out the evening with a short swim in the hotel’s pool.

Already, we are seeing the Lord move in such cool ways! We are so excited to get to partner with Him and what He is doing in this beautiful nation. Thank you for your continued prayers at home!

Love, Team El Salvador

FDYC: Is It Right for Me?

Fidèle Youth Dance Company: Is It Right For Me?

 Turning Pointe Dance is committed to providing excellence in dance and theater instruction while cultivating hearts of worship and nurturing creativity. Our mission is to fully develop artistic skills and talents in an atmosphere that is glorifying to God, and to encourage our students to use their gifts to bless others in our community and beyond. From first steps through graduation, no matter your goals, Turning Pointe has something for everyone – including the opportunity to gain pre-professional experience as a member of Fidèle Youth Dance Company.

 Interested in production experience with a focus on shining the light of Christ? Read on to find out if FYDC is right for you or your dancer!

What is FYDC?

 Fidèle Youth Dance Company, part of Turning Pointe Dance, is a Christian, student dance company. FYDC strives to impact our community for His kingdom through the arts, providing a healthy and Christ-centered training environment with the unique opportunity to be involved in a production and gain pre-professional experience.

 What can I gain by joining the company?

​Members of Fidèle (French for “faithful”) gain valuable experience in a pre-professional company setting that fosters both a love of Christ and a love of the arts. Students work with guest instructors to expand their vocabulary and skill sets in dance and acting, giving company members the tools and experience they need to continue dancing professionally, be it in a performance company, in the missions field, in college and beyond. Members also participate in the creation of original productions, providing the unique experience of learning to build a performance from the ground up.

What makes FYDC different from other performance companies/performing in the recital?

​Each year, members of FYDC perform an original, full-length and faith-based production with the intention of spreading the gospel through the arts. In addition, Company members are assigned to prayer groups, encouraging friendships and spiritual bonds that transcend studio space. As a group, Fidèle participates in outreach and service projects each season that minister to our community and work through Bible studies that pertain to each annual production, taking the lessons learned in the classroom and translating them into the hands and feet of Christ, shining His light on the stage, to each other and in the world.

 As part of company outreach, each year students perform pieces from their praise and worship repertoire at senior centers, homeless shelters, memory care facilities, rehabilitation centers, arts festivals and other events throughout Colorado Springs with the mission of using performance to shine the light of Christ to members of the community. After performing, company members serve each location by spending time visiting residents, serving meals, cleaning up and assisting with other duties, as assigned. In addition to performance, Fidèle has partnered with Care and Share Food Bank for Southern Colorado and Springs Rescue Mission to help neighbors in need across the state.

To date, Fidèle has donated more than 1,000 pounds of food to Care and Share and built more than 1,500 care boxes for low-income seniors. Members of the company have also served the community through service days spent cleaning local parks and raising funds to end child poverty through Compassion International's Walk with Compassion. Last season, members of FYDC participated in CityServe, organized by COS I Love You, serving the community in city wide prayer events, and volunteering their time for trail clean up at Garden of the Gods park.

How old do I need to be to participate?

 There are four levels of company participation within FYDC: Senior Company (dancers age 14 and older); Apprentice Company (dancers age 10-13); Junior Company (dancers age 8-9); and Acting Company (limited dance members of all ages). Tuition and additional requirements are based on your age/level within the company.

What are the requirements?

 Because FYDC rehearsals do not include class time and focus instead on putting together the production, members of the company must abide by the following requirements in order to prepare for their roles and avoid injury. (Members do not need to fulfill these requirements at Turning Pointe; however, classes taken at other studios must be communicated to FYDC’s directorial team.)

 Members of the FYDC Senior Company are required to take two or more ballet technique classes per week, plus at least one additional class in the style of their choice. Dancers en pointe are required to take at least one pointe class per week in addition to other Senior Company requirements.

 Members of the FYDC Apprentice Company are required to take one or more ballet technique class per week, plus at least one additional class in the style of their choice.

 Members of the FYDC Junior Company are required to take one or more dance technique class per week. Although ballet is preferred, the class may be in the style of their choice.

What is the time/financial commitment?

 Weekly rehearsals take place each Saturday from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Turning Pointe. Each week will consist of a company warm-up, Bible study and production rehearsal. The season will run from Intensive Week, July 15-20, through our final performance the weekend of November 16.

​Cast members need only attend during rehearsal times for numbers in which they've been cast, and rehearsals will be primarily be structured by company level. If your parts are not rehearsing, you do not need to be at the studio.

​All company members are required to attend the Intensive Week and both theater rehearsals.

Tuition is based on age/placement within the company. Discounts are offered for students who pay the entire season’s tuition up front (by August 1), and for additional family members within the company. A complete list of tuition and fees is available at FideleYouthDanceCompany.com/Tuition.

What are the details of this season’s production?

 This season FYDC will perform “Out of Egypt,” an original production based on the book of Exodus. “I have seen. I have heard. I will deliver.” In addition to bringing the powerful message of this scripture to Mitchell High School’s 850-seat theater, members of the 2019 Company will have the opportunity to experience the creation of this full-length production from start to finish.

Performances will be held the weekend of November 16.

Can I still join the 2019 Company?

 Yes! The final round of auditions will be held Saturday, June 8. For audition times and more information, including the roles up for grabs, what to bring, what to wear and what to expect, visit FideleYouthDanceCompany.com/Auditions.

 Want to learn more? Visit FideleYouthDanceCompany.com, or reach out to the directorial team directly at FideleYouthDanceCompany@gmail.com.

All About Picture Week

All About Picture Week

 Mark your calendars! April 29-May 4 is Picture Week at Turning Pointe! During your child’s regular class times, class photos will be taken outside the Pique studio. To make each portrait shine, all dancers will need to wear their recital costumes to class with the correct tights, shoes, hair style and accessories. But do they need to bring anything else? How can you order prints and digital photos for yourself? Can I have individual portraits taken? We’ve got all you need to know and more, straight from the photographer herself:

“Hi there! I’m Amanda Lamb. I’m the single mom of two kids. You might know my daughter Reagan. She dances her heart out, but she’s been on crutches since late February. We’ve been a Turning Pointe family since 2012, and I’ve been the official Turning Pointe Dance photographer since 2015. I’m sure we’ve seen each other in the lobby or parking lot in some frazzled passing. When I’m not loving on your Turning Pointe dancers, I’m either helping my brides plan the wedding of their dreams or teaching World History and Civics at The Classical Academy High School.”

Q: What do I need to know for Picture Week?
A: “Most of all, with any portrait session, it’s incredibly important that you stay calm for your dancer. When we’re in the basement, we’re doing our best to bring out your dancer’s best. If they’re nervous or rushed, it’ll show in their photos. We’re going to continue doing appointment-based time slots for your dancer’s individual portraits, with the exception of our Twirl Dancers. Twirl Dancers will have their portrait taken during their class time.”

 Secondarily, make absolutely sure that if you want an individual photo for your dancer, you schedule a time for them to be photographed. This is especially important if you plan to purchase a memory mate of your dancer. Without an individual portrait time, they will not have their individual portrait taken.”

Q: Do I need to be present during my child’s photo?
A: No. In fact, parents are not allowed in the photo area. Through years and years of experience, we have found that even the smallest of dancers respond best to our gentle, encouraging, and professional presence. Just like during dance class, we respectfully ask that all parents/guardians stay out of the photographic area.”

Q: I have a lot of dancers in the family. Can I get a discount for my dancers’ photos?
A: “Yes! Purchases are discounted in two ways:

1.     Turning Pointe families are on a special purchase list that has items automatically discounted 20 percent. No code required!

2.     You can pre-purchase print credit. Up until the first day of portraits, I allow families the opportunity to pre-purchase print credits. If you know you’ll want $500 worth of prints between portraits and recital, you can pay just $400 for that purchase between now and the first day of portrait week.”

Q. Where can I go to pre-purchase and save?
A: “Just Visit https://squareup.com/store/amanda-lamb-photography. You can place your order here anytime between now and the end of Picture Week! Once we receive your order, you’ll receive an email with a coupon code within 48 hours. Keep this coupon code – you’ll use it when you check out to take your prepaid credit amount off the total of your order.”

Q: Can I send cash or a check with my dancer?
A: “Unfortunately our capability to accept in-person payments during picture week is very limited. We’re happy to take your credit or debit card payment, but we can’t accept cash or checks. Our preference is to have you do it online through our secure storefront. You’re welcome to wait until pictures are released and order via our super-easy-to-use website; however, the best opportunity to save is to take advantage of the pre-sale.”

Q: Will you be selling memory mates this year?
A: “YES! We are excited to offer memory mates again this year. We’ve made a beautiful template. They will be available for $35 during the pre-sale and $45 after.”

Q: Where and when can I view the photos?
A: “Just visit https://amandalambphotography.shootproof.com/TurningPointe2019. You can enter your email to be notified when images are ready! And, great news! This is also where the recital photos will be this year. That’s right – all your dancer’s photos in one easy place! This also means no separate shipping charges for recital and portraits. We’re hoping to have photos ready within 2-3 weeks of each event.

Thank you so much for entrusting your dancers to us! We’re so excited to make Portrait week a success!”

The Training Division: Is It Right For Me?

Turning Pointe Dance is committed to providing excellence in dance and theater instruction while cultivating hearts of worship and nurturing creativity. We specialize in beginners of all ages and offer training through pre-collegiate levels, from first class to graduation – and for students who wish to pursue dance beyond our walls, the opportunity to further their pre-professional experience through the Training Division. Interested in studying classical ballet in college and beyond? Read on to find out if Turning Pointe’s Training Division is right for you or your dancer!

What is the Training Division?

The Training Division’s mission is to bring high quality, technically focused and faith-centered ballet instruction to students who are passionate about dance. In the division’s structured program, students prepare to pursue dance in college, and gain the ability to springboard into additional training for a professional career. With experienced teachers, cohesive programing and mentorship, students are inspired to become their best self for their family, community and for God. In this division we focus on readying students for dancing at the college level.

 “Training dancers get more time in the studio, focused attention on the details of technique in ballet (which propels the dancer forward in ALL types of dance), outreach performances, the opportunity to learn time management skills, the opportunity to learn how to work in a group, and encouragement to take on the responsibility of their personal dance education/journey.”

—    Sara Murdaugh, Director, Training Division

What are the requirements?

 Placement in the Training Division is available to students age 10 years and older.

During the regular season, Training dancers are required to attend a training division ballet technique class three times per week, plus one non-ballet elective (jazz, worship, modern, musical theater, etc.). More electives can be added, but at least one is required.

Over the summer, a minimum of one mini-mester Training class (which meets twice weekly) and one summer intensive are required, and additional classes are strongly recommended.

What makes the Training Division different from my other ballet classes?

 The main difference between the Training program and recreational dance classes is the intensity level and its focus on prepping students for collegiate dance. Training classes are a bigger time and financial commitment with each step and experience geared toward students who are serious about dancing long-term.

While non-Training classes are also taught by professional teachers, and students still receive quality training and development, most students in recreational/recital classes split their focus among other activities or different styles of theater or dance rather than focusing exclusively on a career in ballet. 

How do I get into the Training Division?

An audition, essay and pre-training class (or intermediate teen/adult class) is required for entrance into the program. For pre-training class, students must be at the ballet 2B level and receive a teacher invitation to attend. Students will take this class in addition to their regular ballet class (totaling two ballet classes per week). 

Will I still dance in the recital if my only classes are in the Training Division?

Training students perform two dances in the annual recital: One classical ballet piece and one worship dance. They will buy one costume, and if they are new to Training, they will buy a required leotard and skirt (we’ll order this for you and can be used in class and year after year).

Once I’m in the Division, how do I advance through the program?

Students are placed in a certain level within the division according to their current technical and physical needs based on a placement class. This not only helps ensure that they continue to improve, but also gives them the building blocks for many years down the road. Even if you’ve been in ballet for years, you may still be placed in Training 1 as an opportunity to go back and master the basics. It also provides a pathway to develop the strength and endurance necessary for the Training Division in a slower, more healthy way to avoid injury.  

Once placed, dancers will progress through each level at their own pace. It’s important to remember that everyone’s dance journey is different, and everyone’s body is different. As such, not everyone will progress at the same rate or in the same way. Our job is to ensure that students move along in a way that is best for each person’s body and current abilities. The higher the level, the more there is to learn and master before moving on – this means more time spent in that level. 

“I think Training has many benefits, but the main ones that stick out to me are the community, the challenge, and the extra ministry opportunities. I think Training also forces to you become more mature and learn how to better manage your time. Training prepares you for the next step in your dance career, and I think when I first started Training, I didn’t really believe that. However, once I started attending conventions and other dance events on my own, I realized just how much I had grown in dance due to Training.”
—   Abby Woodford, Student, Training Division

Auditions for the 2019-20 season will be held Monday, March 18, from 4-5:15 p.m., and Wednesday, May 22, from 5:15-6:45 p.m. For more details, including what to wear to auditions, student contracts and expectations, visit TurningPointeSchoolofDance.com/training-division-cecchetti-syllabus.

 Want more information? Join us this Saturday for an informational meeting, March 2, from 11:15 a.m. – Noon.

Turning Pointe's Top 10 Reasons to Try Tap!

Turning Pointe’s Top 10 Reasons to Try Tap

 Do you struggle with timing or musicality? Maybe you need a fun new way to stick to a healthier you in 2019, or even dream of Singin’ in the Rain and one day kicking with the Radio City Rockettes. Whether your goals are recreational or professional in nature, tap dancing is a great way to reach them. Need to be convinced? Check out Turning Pointe’s top 10 reasons to give tap dancing a try:  

1.   It’s for everyone

Tap dancing can be adapted for any age, ability or fitness level. It’s also one of the more neutral styles, appealing to boys and girls, ballerinas, hip hop students and jazz dancers alike! There are classes for preschool students to adult, recreational or recital, and absolutely everything in between!

2.   It’s portable

No need for sprung floors, barres or additional equipment – all you need are your tap shoes and a hard floor. It’s that simple! Tap can be done anywhere, anytime, so practicing your skills is a breeze.

3.   It’s great for coordination

Tap requires the development of both mental and muscle memory to become proficient. Tap steps are complex and often very detailed, so learning and practicing can be great exercise for your brain. Once you understand the rhythm of each step, translating each one to your feet is the ultimate challenge for balance and coordination.

4.   It increases ankle strength and flexibility

While most styles of dance keep you constantly moving from one foot to another, tap offers a further challenge by adding movements and steps that isolate the use of different parts of your feet. All that pointing and flexing will leave your ankles stretched and toned. Bonus: These factors also lead to increased mobility in your knees and hips, and even help to prevent shin splints!

5.   It’s great exercise

Did you know an hour of tap can burn up to 250 calories? Just turn up the music to elevate your heartrate, tone your muscles, engage your core and give yourself a great cardiovascular workout – but you won’t notice all of that because you’ll be having so much fun!

6.   It’s an important part of history

Tap dancing evolved from African tribal dances and Scottish, Irish, and English clog dances. It boasts a long line of legendary performers, all of whom have passed on skills and stories for generations. When you participate in tap, you’re not just taking class – you’re showing respect for elder teachers and tap dance history as you keep the legacy of tap dancing alive!

7.   It makes a well-rounded dancer

What do Singin’ in the Rain, Kiss Me Kate and Yankee Doodle Dandy have in common? They’re all shows that prominently feature tap dancing! Even Billy Elliott, the hit movie turned Broadway show, features tap, as do several shows by the Radio City Rockettes. Be prepared for any part or audition by adding tap to your resume!

8.   It improves rhythm and musicality

Unlike other styles of dance, tap forces its participants to listen to rhythms from both the music AND their feet. Find the beats within the music you’re dancing to and the music you’re making through your taps to perfect your timing and musical interpretation!

9.   It can improve other styles of dance

Even if you’re committed to another style, tap can help dancers improve in every class. Did you know tap is considered the foundation of hip hop? And the same music you’ll hear in tap class can also be heard in jazz. Isolating your feet and ankles, using your breath and keeping a relaxed upper body can progress into solid technique for modern dance, and strengthening your feet and increasing awareness of ankle alignment can be carried into any ballet or pointe class!

10.   It’s FUN!

Let’s face it – making noise is fun! Tapping your feet provides a cathartic release that’s great for self-expression, confidence and emotional health. With tap dancing, you make the music AND the entertainment!

Ready to give it a try? Summer is a great time to try something new with minimal commitment and no Spring recital, and Turning Pointe’s Summer Mini Mester is the perfect way to challenge yourself. There’s a tap class for everyone!

Classes run June 3-27, then July 1-25 (No classes July 4th...make up day on Friday, July 12th same class times). Sign up for one month or both!

For more information, visit turningpointeschoolofdance.com/summer-mini-mester.

Join Us in Neverland!!

“All the world is made of faith, and trust, and pixie dust.”   – J.M. Barrie

This weekend, STARZ Theater Company will take on the tale of the free-spirited, mischievous boy who can never grow up as they present “Peter Pan Jr.,” Jan. 25-27 at the ENT Center for the Arts. The high-flying adventure is sure to delight audiences as this division of Turning Pointe celebrates its sixth season with a performance that deviates from the company’s prior two productions.

“We try to switch back and forth between historical and imaginative shows, year to year,” STARZ director Carmen Swank said. “With ‘Annie’ and ‘Singin’ in the Rain,’ we had performed two back-to-back shows that were set in realistic historical settings. It was time for us to look at an imaginative work.”

But while imagination brings about a magical experience for audiences, it also brings about a new set of challenges.

“I'll be honest, the imaginative works are the hardest because they include ‘magical’ elements that audiences expect to experience,” Swank continued. “Creating that ‘magic’ in front of a live audience, on our budget, can be intimidating.  As we talked and strategized, we determined Peter Pan would be a fun show, that our audiences would love. We couldn't remember the last time a youth theater company had produced it. We also believed we could find a way to create the ‘magic’ of flight that audiences have come to expect. Thanks to ZFX Rigging, our audiences can definitely expect to see Peter Pan and the Darling children take flight during our production. It will be exciting!”

While the magical aspects of this story will be familiar to some, STC’s adaptation won’t look like the Disney classic you grew up watching, nodding instead to the original Broadway rendition. Many of STC’s students and leaders even took the time to read Scottish novelist and playwright J.M. Barrie’s vision for the story and each character in preparation for the performance.

“He [Barrie] was purposeful in creating a timeless story that addressed social issues of that day and incredibly continue to do that today,” Swank said. “The Broadway version does a wonderful job of staying true to Barrie's original story, which was written in 1904 as a play and in 1911 as a novel.”

Contrary to the traditional adaptation, Barrie’s story had some purposeful additions, many of which have been adopted into the costuming for STC’s performance. Their original choreography also adds a new twist to the show’s many classic songs, including a number mirroring the style of stage sensation “STOMP” set to the soundtrack of “Ugh-A-Wug.”

“This is a soaring adventure perfect for the entire family,” Swank said. “This show is family and budget friendly, and a wonderful way to support fellow Turning Pointe students and the arts in our community. We hope families and individuals alike will honor us with their presence.”

Experience the magic for yourself Friday, Jan. 25 at 6 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 26 at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., or Sunday, Jan. 27 at 2 p.m. at the ENT Center for the Arts. Tickets are available at STARZTheater.org!

“So come with me, where dreams are born, and time is never planned. Just think of happy things, and your heart will fly on wings, forever, in Never Never Land!”   – J.M. Barrie

More Than Dance: Turning Pointe’s 2018 Outreach Roundup

What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have the works?  

                                                 — James 2:14

 At Turning Pointe Dance, our mission is not only to develop a dancer’s skills, but to encourage students to use their gifts to bless others in our community. Our dancers go beyond technique to develop important life skills like learning to be respectful and confident, and share their gifts and talents with the city and beyond.

 In keeping with the mission, Turning Pointe started the 2018-19 season off right, serving the community in a variety of ways. In addition to shining His light through praise and worship performance at events like the Southern Colorado Children’s Arts Festival and the Wilson Christian Church Trunk or Treat Harvest Festival, students reached beyond dance to serve the city through several outreach initiatives.

 On October 6, students of Turning Pointe participated in citywide prayer and park clean up events as part of CityServe, a gospel movement in Colorado Springs, hosted by COS I Love You. Students joined more than 3,000 volunteers who participated in more than 12,000 hours of service in 98 projects around Colorado Springs.

Throughout the month of November, Turning Pointe held a special drive for Springs Rescue Mission, collecting towels and bedding for their newly expanded, 168-bed shelter and resource center. Together, Turning Pointe collected 152 lbs. worth of donations to dress beds for members of the men's addiction recovery program and provide clean towels and washcloths for the showers in the shelter’s resource facility.

To kick off December, members of Fidele and STARZ performance companies came together to donate items and assemble blessing bags. More than 120 bags were packed and prayed over, each one containing bottled water, a healthy lunch and snacks, and items such as clean socks and hand sanitizer, which were distributed to the elderly, homeless and other neighbors in need across Colorado Springs.

Over the holidays, students continued to serve the community by performing Christmas dances and visiting residents at three separate assisted living centers. In addition, students performed and contributed to The Little Yellow Ball Project holiday benefit, which collected toy donations for local children in need.

 As we begin a new year and the second half of our dance season, we invite you to join us as we re-center our hearts on Turning Pointe’s mission, reaching beyond technique to serve as our Father’s hands and feet in our community.

Join us at the studio this Saturday, January 12, from 10-11 a.m. We’ll be setting goals for the rest of the dance season and the year ahead, whether they’re related to dance or not. It will be a time of worship and prayer, followed by a prayer walk around the studio (and other locations, if you feel led).

"I was hungry and you gave me something to eat; I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink; I was a stranger and you took me in; I needed clothes and you clothed me; I was sick and you cared for me; I was in prison and you visited me. ... Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me."     

        -- Matthew 25:35-26, 40

Merry Christmas from Turning Pointe

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

— Isaiah 9:6

Glory to God in the Highest! We’ve had so much fun performing our Christmas programs over the last two weeks, sharing our love of dance and all our hard work with some amazing audiences. Thank you to everyone who came to watch and worship with us! Did you miss any of the holiday fun? Our next Peek Week begins April 1!

Just a reminder that the studio will be closed December 23 – January 6 for Christmas break. We look forward to seeing everyone, rested and rejuvenated, in a few weeks! May the blessings of God’s special gifts be yours this Christmas and in the New Year.

Happy Thanksgiving from Turning Pointe

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.— 1 Chronicles 16:34

At Turning Pointe Dance, our mission is to fully develop a dancer’s skills and talents in an atmosphere that is glorifying to God, and to encourage our students to use their gifts to bless others in our community and beyond. With three months of the 2018-19 dance season already behind us, we encourage each Turning Pointe family to check in and count their blessings! 

 Participate by printing your thankfulness certificate(s) here. Take a moment to write down a blessing or two! Hang your certificate on the wall at the studio, or simply keep it with you to remind yourself of God’s grace every day. We’ll even get you started! Here are just a few of the many things we’re thankful for this year…

 “I'm thankful for my husband Cody who constantly encourages me and speaks words of truth and life over me. And for my three kiddos, who give me so much joy and remind me to slow down and savor both the mundane and extraordinary moments.” — Miss Tina

 “I am thankful for the ability and gift to dance. Being able to share stories with others through movement is something so creative and unique. I am grateful that I get the chance to do that every day!”  — Miss Jenna

 “I’m thankful for my students and the opportunity I have to get to teach for a studio that I love so much and have grown up dancing in! — Miss Emmy

 “I am thankful for 25 years of marriage, five kiddos, and grace that has carried us through the extraordinary mountains and painful valleys. One other thing...as I approach 50 this next year...I am truly thankful for life, breath, wisdom with age, health, and a continued opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those around me.” — Miss Carmen

 “I’m thankful for my husband, our daughter, my parents and three brothers in Oklahoma, and the community I have in Turning Pointe! This is our first Thanksgiving with baby Kiera, and I’m so grateful for the support and encouragement of my amazing family.” — Miss Mimi

 “Recently, I've been super thankful for smiles. It's crazy that a simple expression can communicate joy cross culturally, across languages, and across lifestyles. A simple smile breaks down barriers, begins conversations, and ultimately, affects each of our individual stories to create a beautiful tapestry of all these stories of joy and human interaction.” — Miss Moriah

 “This dance season I’m feeling especially thankful to be working under Tina. I’ve taught at a lot of dance studios over nearly two decades and I’ve always been discouraged by the lack of teacher care and appreciation. I have never worked for a studio owner with such a mind to bless and encourage her teachers. For the first time in my teaching career, I feel truly VALUED at my job. Wow. I am so thankful for Tina’s heart and example!” — Miss Tasha

 “I am thankful for God's word. That it is living and provides all that I need for every single day.”
— Miss Jenner

 “I am grateful for the seasons.  It's a reminder that we are not stagnate, life keeps moving and changing.”— Miss Sara

 “I’m thankful for snowboarding. It is such a freeing activity and a passion that I get to share with my husband which has really bonded us even closer together.”— Miss Tori

 “I’m thankful for a body that can move and dance, after years of pain and health problems, every day I wake up and can get out of bed, I praise God for healing bodies and giving us the gift of dance.”— Miss Cheri

 “I am thankful for STARZ. I am so excited to see such a safe, challenging, and excellent learning environment. I am thankful for my faith growing in this season.”— Miss Tonya

 “I've found myself incredibly thankful in this season for learning opportunities. Stepping out of high school and into college, stepping into a teaching position, and into a new job in ministry has provided me a lot of space to grow and new experiences to learn from, and God has been teaching me so much! I'm also incredibly grateful for the amazing mentor figures in my life who have been helping me walk through these learning experiences, pouring into me, and allowing me the space to make mistakes and grow right where I am.”— Miss Emma

 “I am thankful that I get to dance with my sister. Our relationship would be very different without it, as it has really bonded us. I love getting to watch her grow and learn and being so involved in that process. Dancing with her is very special to me.” — Miss Lauren

 “I’m thankful for all my siblings. My husband and I both come from large families (I have 5 siblings, he has 10) and, now that we are all adults, I truly count them all as my best friends. I’m thankful for their ability to make me laugh, their listening ears, their prayers, their quirks, and most of all, the fact that they always have my back - no matter what.”— Miss Laura