Midwinter Dance Recital
Like mountain climbers we ascend
Up and into the Eighth Street Studio of Dance,
Where little toes wiggle, awaiting the midwinter recital.
As gracious hands offer teacher-gifts,
We sit, inhaling the deliciousness of hot apple cider
And watching the sun begin its descent along the Radisson.
Eagerly, the children rise and find their spots,
Watching for the instructor’s cues, smiling at parents.
Go toes go! Jump, twist, and glide across the wooden floor!
Dance, spirit, dance in the studio
Where you come every week, giggling with friends,
And learn to contort your shell into artistic expression.
Illuminated now by artificial light,
Excited dancers choose partners for the finale,
Turning suited daddies into clumsy, skipping spectacles.
Finally, a bow, then a frenzied rush to treats –
Chocolate kisses, sugared cookies, peppermint drops.
On a high, we descend, leaping out into the chilly, clear night.
Oh how lovely!