Special students embrace joy of dancing

Music and energy filled the hall at Fairy Meadow Demonstration School during Public Education Week when more than 50 talented students gathered for dance rehearsal.

The young performers, representing eight regional schools from Corrimal High all the way to Queanbeyan, came together to practice their routine for Southern Stars – an item called Eating on the Plane.

This year’s feature piece from the Rising Stars disABILITY Dance Ensemble is a quirky routine celebrating the excitement of air travel, including the hilarious awkwardness of a mid-air meal. 

The ensemble showcases students from years 3 to 12 across special schools and support units. Despite the intricate and impressive choreography, the young dancers have taken to the routine with speed. 

"They finished the dance in one rehearsal!" says Jess Ciocci, a specialist teacher at Fairvale and choreographer for Southern Stars. 

"The first rehearsal, they finished it. They even make an airplane shape at the end, which will look cool from the stadium, and they got that in like two seconds. They've all been so amazing... I just love seeing how happy they are. They love dancing." 

Between joint rehearsals, students stay connected and keep their moves sharp using a Google Classroom video hub, practicing during regular school hours. 

For many participants, the event is a cherished annual tradition. Yianna, a year 11 student from Corrimal High School, is returning to the stage for her fourth year with Southern Stars. 

"It was amazing... seeing people around from other schools, and meeting new friends, and people that I already know of," Yianna says. 

Yianna is enjoying the experience of learning a new routine.

"I'm speechless! I just kept going and going until I get the dance moves right,” she says.

The Rising Stars disABILITY Dance Ensemble continues to be a highlight of the annual Southern Stars showcase, highlighting inclusivity, dedication and the joy of performing.

Audiences can catch the finished performance during show week, kicking off the week of August 27, when the ensemble will take the arena floor in full costume (Hawaiian shirts) for mass rehearsals and final performances.