On April 16 Dance Atlantic competed in Des Moines. Spotlight dance competition was held at the Hy-Vee Hall. Instructor Ricci McLaren had several of her students compete. The studio has had a strong competition season so far.

Junior Kerra Christensen performed her solo “Maneater.” She received her first diamond, fourth place overall, and won the solo choreography award. Freshman Destiny Jordan performed her solo and did better than she expected. Performing a lyrical solo has made her stronger.

Jordan said, “It’s challenging but also not easy.” She got a diamond, third place overall, and the lyrical category award.  She was offered a bid to New York. She said she really enjoyed the Spotlight competition.

Shelby Pelzer, Hayley Gibson, Kerra Christensen, and Lileigh Brown performed their group routine “A Thousand Years.” Pelzer said, “I feel like we did well for being there early in the morning and we had a great outcome.” She was surprised that her team brought home high awards at a well known competition, placing with a 1 overall and a diamond award.

McLaren got a plaque for bringing dancers to compete this competition for five years. Pelzer thought Spotlight dance competition was fun.