First Colonial Patriettes dance like a family
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Dancing can be a way for people to express themselves in a fun way, and dancing together can establish the feeling of a team. For the First Colonial Patriettes, choreographing performances each week, striking poses and performing a variety of dances from jazz to hip-hop is akin to play. These girls are ready for anything, and they support each other as a team.
The Patriettes meet twice a week, on Mondays and Wednesdays, at First Colonial High School or the Music in Motion Dance Studio to develop new routines. The dance studio opened its doors to the Patriettes to provide an effective space in which to learn new choreography and perfect their craft. Dance camps and training for the team have also been held at the studio.
The team’s committed coach, Shaye Arluk, seems to never run out of captivating and fun moves for the girls to perform. With the help of Pat Devon, a local choreographer and artist, the team has choreographed fresh routines to perform at upcoming basketball games.
Traditionally, the Patriettes perform at First Colonial basketball and football games as the halftime show. However, the girls have also competed in the Universal Dance Association regional competition where they showcased their talents and earned third place for their jazz routine.
Dance teams perform better when they feel connected. Thus, the Patriettes engage in bonding activities, such as a gingerbread contest they enjoyed over the winter break. Anslee Burnett, a third-year Patriette, said,” My team always makes me smile and helps me to better myself.” Former Patriette Deanna Sanchez went on to join the dance team at the University of Charleston as a Cougarette. The members of the Patriettes benefit from feelings of family unity and self confidence that carry over into their normal lives and even their futures.
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