Dance for a Cause: Dancers4Kids Show to Support Island Families

The annual Dancers4Kids fundraiser will return to support families affected by cancer on February 14, 2024, at the University of Victoria’s Farquhar Auditorium. This event, initiated in 2018 in collaboration with the Island Kids Cancer Association (IKCS), aims to provide essential financial and emotional support to children undergoing cancer treatment and their families.

Organized by Jeremy and Tiffany Miton of Adagé Studio, the event has gained traction over the years, raising a total of $77,438.23 since its inception. The Mitons joined the initiative in 2023, motivated by a desire to contribute to a cause that resonates deeply within the community. Jeremy Miton shared, “When we stopped travelling and performing as dancers, we decided to stay in one place and teach.”

The Dancers4Kids event features a 50/50 draw, which transitioned to an online model last year, allowing participants from all over British Columbia to contribute. “It feels great to be able to offer this as a way to raise money, and also give someone a chance to walk away with a nice little chunk of cash,” Jeremy added. The previous year’s fundraiser garnered $18,013.30, showcasing the community’s commitment to the cause.

Showcasing Talent While Supporting Families

The upcoming event promises an exciting lineup of performances from various dance studios across the region. Jeremy will lead six dancers from Adagé Studio in a modern piece from Six: The Musical, which they have been rehearsing since September. “We have 19 studios and school dance programs participating,” he explained. “Each studio brings one or two routines to perform. The show creates an incredible atmosphere of support and appreciation for the arts without competition. The dancers are there to showcase their talent and share their love of dance for an amazing cause.”

In addition to the performances, the lobby will feature acts from The Rising Circus and local entertainer Dan Kelly, who will entertain children with juggling and balloon animals. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase 50/50 tickets and participate in a silent auction with prizes donated by local businesses, including a five-night stay for two at a boutique hotel in Mexico.

Masterclasses and Community Engagement

Enhancing the experience, the event will also include masterclasses with renowned choreographers. This year, Carlo Atienza will lead a commercial/hip hop class, while Liz Tookey will conduct a lyrical jazz class. Both instructors are highly regarded in the dance community and will provide valuable opportunities for local dancers to learn from top professionals. Interested participants can find more details about the instructors on Instagram at @dancers4kids.

Tickets for the show are priced at $30 and will be available for purchase starting January 23, 2024, on the University of Victoria’s website. Those eager to participate in the 50/50 draw can get tickets at islandkidscancer.rafflenexus.com, while the silent auction is open for registration at hibid.ca/events/dancers-4-kids-online-auction.

Jeremy Miton expressed the heart behind Dancers4Kids: “Our goal is to create an environment that shares the love of dance and allows our local performers to shine. For the performers, we hope they leave with a renewed love for the arts, knowing their performance plays a significant role in raising money for a great cause.” Attendees can expect a vibrant atmosphere filled with joy and community spirit, potentially leaving with a 50/50 win or exciting auction items.