The Bishop Tonnos Dance Team has been diligently preparing for their first competition of the season. Coaches Amelia Licatalosi and Alyssa Berardocco held auditions back in September, drawing an impressive turnout of over 60 students. Beyond competing and performing at school events, the team also cheers at various school sporting events throughout the year.
On April 30th, the team competed in the Strive Dance Challenge at Mohawk College. "We entered six routines in the competition, which included two solos, two small groups, and two lines of 29 dancers. All the group routines were student choreographed. Student captains Francesca Agro and Desi Savidis have demonstrated exceptional leadership and choreographic skills," Licatalosi remarked.
Among the 52 dancers, soloists Desi Savidis and Ava Rodrigues shone brightly, placing in the top five and earning scholarships to attend dance workshops in Toronto. This marked the first time Rodrigues, a grade 10 student, competed with a solo.
Rodrigues shared her enthusiasm: "Being part of the BT Dance Team for two years has been an amazing experience. It has helped me develop confidence, foster friendships, and find a second family. It's not just about dance; it's about creating unforgettable memories that shape my high school journey."
The contemporary small group routine triumphed as the highest-scoring elite small group, receiving accolades for technical excellence and emerging as the top-scoring routine of the session. Additionally, the team’s hip-hop routine secured first place overall as the highest-scoring elite line and earned a judges’ choice overall impression award, ranking third highest in the competition.
Desi Savidis, reflecting on her four years with the team, said, "Being on BT’s dance team has been incredible. I've formed lasting friendships and honed my skills in teamwork and discipline. The dance team has given me a place to express my love for dance and create cherished memories that will last long after graduation."
The team’s efforts have paid off, placing them among the top three teams in a competition against 15 schools from the GTA.
"Dance team has been a wonderful outlet for sharing our passion for dance with our peers, especially since we don't have a formal dance program at the school. Performing at assemblies, pep rallies, and competitions has been a highlight of our year," added Francesca Agro.
We are immensely proud of the team's hard work and determination and look forward to cheering them on at their next competition in June.
Click on the link to see the story with more pictures.
Dance Team Article 2024 - Strive.pdf