Smoky Lake School of Dance celebrates 30 years

By Haylee Winger The Smoky Lake School of Dance marked a significant milestone on May 31 with its annual year end concert, held at 2:00 p.m., celebrating 30 years of fostering movement, joy, and community through dance.

This special event highlighted the talent, energy, and dedication of local dancers, drawing attention to the strong community support that has sustained the non-profit organization for three decades. Proudly operated by a team of committed volunteers, the School of Dance continues to provide accessible, quality dance education to Smoky Lake and its surrounding areas.

For the 2024/2025 season, the school offered a vibrant range of classes including Acro, Tap, Hip Hop, Jazz, Technique, Intro to Dance, Solos, and an Adult Class. Participants ranged in age from 3 to 12, with the adult class adding another layer of enthusiasm to the program.

“A warm thank you goes out to our amazing teachers Daisy Konschuh and Brooke Hamaliuk (volunteer), hardworking students, as well as our wonderful guests Marianne Prockiw-Zarusky and guest dancer Rowan Daoust who helped make this milestone end year concert so special,” said President Shawne Bishop.

“We also extend our sincere thanks to all the parents, families, and friends for your unwavering support, encouragement, and involvement throughout the year. Your presence and enthusiasm mean the world to our dancers. This year end concert was a success!” added Treasurer Ela Kozakiewicz.

The event was further supported by the generosity of local businesses and community members. Organizers extended special thanks to Smoky Lake Bakery for the generous donation of donuts, The Betsy’s Burger Shack for donating Betsy Bucks, Ukrainian Delicacy by Vasylyna for providing cupcakes for students, Rashida from Pharmachoice for renting space for the dance studio, and Pat and Ed Palechuk for renting the Ukrainian Hall and assisting with event preparations.

As the curtain closed on another successful season, the Smoky Lake School of Dance celebrated not only its 30th anniversary, but also its enduring commitment to creativity, growth, and community. Here’s to many more years of dancing together.