Show is Inspired by Love

Colourful costumes, award-winning choreography and dazzling dance routines come together tonight at Vanier Hall for a gala variety show that showcases top talent in Prince George.
“This is a variety show with lots of comedy, dance numbers featuring classical ballet, tap and lovely lyrical pieces as well,” Judy Russell said Monday. “It’s our annual fund raiser show for the non-profit youth dance company Performers North Entertainment Co. I started the company 20 years ago (studio dancers have been competing in festivals since 1988) and it continues to thrive and give young people education and performance opportunities.”
Funds raised will help dancers with costs and expenses for travel out of town for competitions and to attend educational workshops, she said. Prince Rupert is their next dance destination. In the meantime, the company’s 56 dancers will be on stage tonight to entertain local audiences.
The show’s title performance, Inspired by Love, is a sensational 12-minute, large and lavish number inspired by Cirque de Soleil’s Love show in Las Vegas, with Beatles lyrics and music. As well, there will be new Broadway material from Shrek, lovely lyrical numbers and lots of different dance disciplines from classical ballet to tap, modern and jazz.
Stunning costumes were created for the show like Matthew Cluff’s brightly hued show-stopping Inspired by Love ensemble designed by Grace Loftus. Appearing on stage as special guests for Performers North dancers are young pre-company performers.
“The younger ones are guest performers who are destined to be in Performers North,” said Russell. “The main thing about this show for us is that it will raise money so Performers North can continue to learn and perform.”
Judy Russell presents Performers North Entertainment Company with an Evening of Award Winning Dance Inspired by Love, Wednesday, April 14 at Vanier Hall. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets available at Studio 2880, Judy Russell’s Enchainement Dance Centre and at the door.