Kidlat fires up the virtual stage

STEPS ON SCREENS. ICAns from Kidlat Dance Studio exhibit unity and love for dance through an online showcase amidst the quarantine.

By Jermaine Herrera of 11-Goodness

Photo from Kidlat Dance Studio

COACHED BY Patricia Rivera (Batch 2014) and Therese Rivera (Batch 2009), ICAns from Kidlat Dance Studio held their first online dance concert entitled “QUARANTEAM” with the tagline “Taking Team Spirit to the Screens” last July 26.

ICAns from Grades 6 to 12 are members of Kid Lightning Crew, which is the Philippines’ first Junior Crew Representative for international competitions. From having live shows and dance workshops, the team transitioned to online forms of training and entertainment to continue celebrating teamwork and passion amidst the pandemic. With the goal of inspiring the youth to cope with these trying times, the concert showcased solo performances by the senior members, group performances by the competing and new members, a guest performance by The Rivera Sisters - Intermediate Class and The Heart at Play Foundation, and a guest speaker, Dra. Anna Rosario. The show also highlighted topics on teamwork, maintaining a balanced lifestyle, and awareness about current events through partnering with youth organizations.

Prior to this event, the team experienced numerous challenges while training and learning dances through the online setup. Nevertheless, these difficulties turned into breakthroughs as they further strengthened the ICAns’ bond and improved their diligence and responsibility. Through this experience, the dancers also inspired others towards having a proactive lifestyle during the quarantine.

Regarding her experience in preparing for the show, one of the dance heads, Kaira Chua, shares, “Online dance training was really hard because of unstable internet connection and having to do everything yourself. I would have to set a schedule for myself to learn and polish the dances since our coach can’t check on us like she used to. Despite all that, I think I was still able to grow as a dancer and have a successful online concert.”