The smile on Michelle Hillier’s face said it all as performers took their turn in the spotlight in June at Northgate Church in Courtenay.
The second annual Dance is For All Talent Show brought together performers of all abilities for an afternoon of music, dance, comedy and drama. With 20 performers taking part, the event offered a welcoming stage where participants could share their talents and connect with an enthusiastic audience.
Michelle, co-owner of Triple Heat Dance Studio and founder of its Dance is For All (also known as All Abilities Dance) program, created the event to provide a space where people with developmental disabilities can express themselves, enjoy performing and be celebrated for their unique gifts.
The Story Behind the Show
The roots of the talent show go back to a promise between friends.
“Erica Ekelund, who used to work at L’Arche Comox Valley, organized a talent show about eight years ago,” says Michelle. “Erica later moved to Kamloops, but the talent show remains one of her fondest memories. Because I’ve spent my career encouraging and coaching people in performance, I’ve always appreciated how meaningful those opportunities can be. I promised Erica that when the chance arose, I’d organize another talent show.”
That opportunity came last year when the first showcase drew a standing-room-only crowd, making a return this year an easy decision.
A Welcoming Space
The show is closely connected to Triple Heat’s Dance is For All program, which gives people with developmental and physical challenges the opportunity to experience the joy of music and movement. Participants spend months preparing for the event, planning and practicing their performances.
But the stage isn’t reserved exclusively for members of the dance program.
“We welcome anyone who wants to share a gift,” says Michelle. “The goal is to create an inclusive event where people can express themselves, build confidence and experience being on stage.”
A Chance to Shine
“What I love about this event is that it gives people a chance to simply share who they are and what they love to do,” says Michelle. “You can see the joy they feel when they step onto the stage and know they are seen, celebrated and valued. Having a platform where every person is recognized is incredibly meaningful.”
For Marie, who performed in the skit Laundry Blues, it was a memorable experience. Written by Marie, who also enjoys creating poetry, the comedy performance had the audience laughing.
“What I enjoyed about the talent show is seeing different people willing to share their talents,” says Marie.
Marie’s enthusiasm highlights the spirit of the event: encouraging people to express themselves, take risks, and discover new strengths.
Looking ahead, Michelle hopes to continue growing both the Dance is For All program and the annual talent show, creating more opportunities for people with developmental disabilities to participate in the performing arts.
Visit tripleheatdance.com or email danceis4all@gmail.com. You can also learn more by calling L’Arche Comox Valley at 250.871.6288.
Triple Heat Dance (THD) is heading into its 15th season under the ownership and guidance of Livea Gill Harding and Michelle Hillier. THD is a community-minded school dedicated to providing quality dance instruction for students as young as 1.5 years and as wise as 70+ years. With their experienced and qualified instructors, they’re proud to offer many unique programs in many disciplines.
