Flashing lights, a cheering crowd, camera’s flashing, and standing ovations. Can you feel the rush of adrenaline? Not a celebrity stepping off the red carpet, but this is the PLHS Dance Team shining in the light doing what they love most. 

The PLHS Dance Team traveled to Florida representing Monarchs on their way to state. Determination and preparation is what motivated these dancers to show what they’re capable of.

“We’ve been preparing all year for state, it’s the last thing we do before nationals, it’s 4 days so we were mostly ready,” freshman Malori Watkins said.

The dancers are excited to attend state, and happy to show others how much they appreciate being able to express their feelings by dancing on stage.

“It’s super exciting and the feeling is amazing. It’s cool to have our family and friends there to support us,” sophomore Morgan Griess said.

All the excitement can turn into jitters especially when about to perform in front of a big crowd.

“It’s nerve wracking, knowing the judges are behind the curtains, but we all hype each other up, and once we get on stage the nerves just go away,” Griess said.

For the first time in 3 years, the PLHS Dance Team broke a new school record, ending their trip with new beginnings and a team victory.

“We got 8th in jazz with a new high score of 85.75, which is the highest score ever in 3 years, so we basically made history,” Watkins said.

Improving on your own as a dancer is one thing but, in the end teamwork is what always counts.

“As a team we want to place in finals, we made it to the semi finals this year so why not take it a step further,” Greiss said.” 

The PLHS Dance team is very hopeful and thrilled to see the stage at nationals for their next season.

“I’m looking forward to going to nationals again, especially going with my team that I spend most of my days with,” Watkins said.”

The dancers learned a lot from their experience at state and can’t wait for what their next season will bring.