By Willesby Rutherford, Youth Writer
Wolmer's Dance Troupe. The name rings a bell doesn't it?
To watch the dancers rehearse is to fall into a trance. Seeing them perform is like watching schools of fishes glide through water merging speed and agility with graceful movements.
Wolmer's Prep school teacher Barbara McDoniel has been coordinating the troupe since its founding 11 years ago. The group was formed at the Wolmer's Prep School hence earning its name. It includes girls from both Prep and High ranging in ages from four to 17. McDoniel says most girls, after leaving prep school, return to the group during high school and pick-up where they left off.
The troupe made its debut appearance at the Little Theatre in Kingston. Overseas performances are on the group's agenda but they boast high achievement on the local stage as well. They have snatched the Most Outstanding Performance trophy in the JCDC (Jamaica Cultural Development Commission) Dance Festival for 10 consecutive years.
Despite the success of her troupe, Ms McDoniel believes Jamaica "needs to recognise our cultural talents" more. While things are changing, she notes, however, that dance still receives less recognition compared to other art forms. After much hard work and time spent "there are less openings for dancers than any other form of the arts" says Ms McDoniel.
Nevertheless the troupe strives to maintain its high standards at major events and functions -- among them the recently staged VMBS Boys/Girls Champs. The dancers gave thousands in the audience a chance to catch the latest dance moves during the opening ceremony at the National Stadium in Kingston. Their sisterly actions proved they are more than a dance group, they are close friends.
"Most Memorable performance? Mmm". Ms. McDoniel paused thoughtfully, then says with a smile: "All of them I guess."
