Car Wash Fundraiser - Sat June 10th

Car Wash Fundraiser

Our Competitive Division will be hosting a Car Wash Fundraiser on Saturday, June 10th from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Corpell's Water at 2627 Pembina Hwy. Please drop by for a Car Wash and support our Student's Association MSDSA

2017 Summer Lessons & Registration

Congratulations to all our dancers who performed at the Winnipeg, Brandon, and Teulon recitals this year.   Well done to all the dancers who participated in the 2^nd Annual CRN Canada Féile and many thanks to all our volunteers & instructors for their assitance in running the event.  We are very proud of all our dancers accomplishments this season and we wish you all the best for the summer months!

Our 2017 – 2018 Fall Registration Information will be avaiable soon.  Details will be sent out via email.

For those who wish to continue with lessons through the summer months, please see below...

2017 SUMMER REGISTRATION

Classes for our summer session begin this week!

All General Division & Competitive Division dancers must register for summer clases.

 CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Competitive Division

Competitive Division classes are open to both competitive & recreational dancers.  Competition is optional for all and dancers who wish to improve on technique and advance levels are recommeded to enrol in competitive classes, even if they do not wish to compete.

Monday & Wednesday Classes  – see schedule below

Competitive  Summer Lesson Dates

June    Monday – 5^th, 12^th 19^th 26^th   Wednesday – 7^th 14^th, 21^st, 28^th

July     Monday – 3^rd 10^th, 17^th, 24^th, 31^st   Wednesday – 5^th, 12^th, 19^th, 26^th

Aug     Monday – 14^th, 21^st, 28^th    Wednesday – 2^nd, 16^th, 23^rd 30^th

• Competitive dancers wishing to compete in CRN USA  Regionals in October must register for the full summer session classes or enroll in private / semi private lessons.
• Please contact us if you have questions regarding which level / levels are appropriate for dancers.

Kansas Feile – Saturday, July 15^th

Our school  will be participating in the Kansas Feile on Saturday July 15^th 2017           

All competitive dancers are welcome to participate. Feile registration information will be sent out soon!

General Division Folklorama

General Division dancers who wish to perform at the United Kingdom Pavilion for Folklorama 2017 are welcome to enroll in our summer session.

Tuesdays Lessons – see schedule below

United Kingdom Pavilion  Aug 6th – 12th, 2017          

Folkorama Practice Dates

June -  6th, 13th, 20th, 27th

July 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th

Aug – Tues Aug 1st, Thur Aug 3rd (5:30 – 9:00 PM)  Sat Aug 5th (12:00  pm – 4:00 pm)

Performance Division

Tuesdays & Thursdays – see schedule below           

                   

Canada Feile 2017 Information

Dear Dancers & Parents,

We are very excited for our 2nd Annual  CRN Canada Feile on Saturday, May 27th 2017.   Competing dancers and parents should read through all the information provided so they are well informed for the competitions.   Best wishes to all dancers competing on Saturday! The dancers have worked very hard and we know they will do their best and make us all proud of their accomplishments.

Dancers, family, and friends are welcome to attend and we encourage our non-competing dancers to come out and support us for our 2nd  Canada Feile.

For those attending we remind you we are welcoming dancers, parents, instructors, and adjudicators from the U.S.A .  We encourage parents and dancers to make sure everyone feels welcome and is well looked after.  Please do your best to show a warm welcome to our visitors!

Our instructors and coordinators are extremely busy preparing for the feile so we ask you to please be mindful of the workload and assist as best you can by limiting questions to only those absolutely necessary.   Please review all the information included in this email before contacting us with your questions as most of the answers will be provided already.

Feile Information

Date – Saturday, May 27^th 2017

Location – Canad Inns Club Regent Casino Hotel, 1415 Regent Ave. West, Winnipeg

Doors Open 8:00 AM

Start Time: Line-up 8: 30 AM

Competition starts 9:00 AM

Adjudicator: Ms.. Lena McGinley

General Admission: $5 US per person 

CRN non-registered dancers: $3 US

Open Platform dancers: $6 US

* please note this is in US Funds, exchange will be calculated the day of the feile based on current rates

Feile Tank Tops

For dancers who’ve ordered T-Shirts they can be picked up at check-in the day of the feile.  There will be a few extra t-shirts available for sale but supplies are limited

Costumes

Solo costumes are not permitted in Bungrad or Ullmhuchan levels with the exception of dancers over 18.  Solo costumes may be worn in Meanghrad, Ardghrad, and Craobhghrad levels by dancers of any age

All school costumes are registered with CRN so please wear appropriate school costumes.

• Performance – Black with cummerbund & cuffs
• General – Green Skirt & Black Bodysuit
• Please make sure costume items are secure as dancer will be disqualified if items fall off.  If a costume piece falls off, dancers are required to stop dancing, pick up the item and return back to their position to wait until competition is over.

Dance Shoes

• Shoes should be well fitting, clean, and polished.  Ill-fitting shoes will affect a dancer’s placement.
• Absolutely no elastic in shoes (hard or soft). Use proper hard shoe or soft shoe laces only.
• Double knot all laces and secure buckles on hard shoes.  Untied laces will result in disqualification.  If a dancer’s lace becomes untied, dancers should return to their position to wait until the competition is over.

Wigs

Wigs are optional for CRN Competitions

Full, Bun, or Pony tail wigs are acceptable

• Please make sure costume items are secure as dancer will be disqualified if items fall off.

Tights / Socks

CRN Rule, dancers 20 and over must wear black tight

• Poodle socks for all dancers under 20
• Team dancers must coordinate socks or tights
• Make sure your socks are newer, clean, white, and well fitting.  Sock glue is essential as dancers will lose points if socks fall down during competition

Make-Up

MSD & CRN discourage the use of heavy make-up, spray tan, etc. especially with younger dancers. There are low  stage lights at Feile’s so heavy make-up is not necessary.  Light or no make-up is acceptable. 

CRN General Feile Information & Regulations

• Be dressed and ready to compete at least 30 minutes prior to competition time as there can be long line ups at check in, especially during earlier competitions.
• Absolutely no changing in competition room or in hallways.  All dancers must change in dancer’s room (or wherever directed by the Feile).  Change rooms are not co-ed and male dancers must stay in area designed for them.
• No practicing in hallways, hotel lobby, etc.  Practicing is permitted in the dancer’s change room if a practice room is not designated
• Dancers must be in full costume for results to receive their prize.  If you are not in costume including footwear, you will not be allowed on the stage / podium.
• Dancers who impede another competition on stage will result in disciplinary action being taken 1^st offence – written warning  2^nd offence – immediate suspension for a period of time
• Dancers who fall while competition in a solo competition will not be penalized and will be allowed the opportunity to compete again at a later time. 
• Dancers who are injured will not be allowed to compete.
• There must be complete silence in the hall during competitions
• Absolutely no photography or video during competitions.  Photographs are acceptable during results ONLY
• The use of cell phones is not permitted during competitions, mobile phones much be switched to silence at all times in the hall
• At no time should dancers or parents approach the adjudicator or scrutineers
• Dancers & Parents should not discuss results or adjudicators decisions at feiles

CRN Grading System

Whenever the number of competitors is less than seven the winner will not advance unless specified by the adjudicator.  This will be announced during results.  If a competitor wins a graded dance three times, with three or more competitors in the competition at the time of winning, that dancer moves on to the next grade in that dance

• MSD will keep track of dancer’s results
• Results are posted on CRN’s website

Results & Award Ceremonies

Typically schools will group together for the reading of results.  Photos are permitted but dancers & parents are reminded not to be intrusive with their photography.

Dancers will need to stay for results in order to receive their medals.  Results “Award” times for levels & team competitions are listed on the schedule and are approximate. 

• Dancers must be in costume with shoes to accept awards and stand on podium
• Dancers  and parents are reminded to accept the results of the adjudicator without question or upset.  Absolutely no sad faces or tears please!
• If you are cheering for your school’s dancers, please keep in mind you should cheer equally for other dancers / school’s results.
• Parents are asked NOT to place pressure on dancers or instructors.  Please do not show disappointment if dancers do not place and keep in mind you must set the example and offer guidance to assist dancers who may be dealing with their own disappointment.
• Dancers & Parents are also reminded to accept achievements with grace and dignity and not “show off” when they place well.

Instructor availability is limited during competitions as all CRN Teachers must volunteer for the Feile.  Please be mindful of instructor’s time at Feile.  If you have important questions, feel free to ask your Instructors, but keep in mind our time is limited and we have a responsibility to CRN and the other dancers competing.

Annual Recital - DVD Orders

Annual Recital - DVD Orders

Pre-Orders for the 2017 Recital DVD’s are now being accepted. Please fill out attached Order Form and drop off, along with payment  in the McConnell School of Dance box in the waiting room at the studio.

Pre-Order Price $25

Order Deadline:  Wednesday May 24th 2017

Pre-ordered copies will be ready during the 1st or 2nd week back in September.  Additional copies will be available in the fall.

For more information please contact Simon Havens simon@havens.ca

Thank you,

McConnell School of Irish Dance

32 Barberry Rd, Wpg Canada R2J2G9

Phone(204) 793-8557

info@mcconnelldancers.com

www.mcconnelldancers.com

                   

Annual Recital Tickets & Information

69^th Annual Recital Information    

Thursday, May 25th, 2017

Location: Prairie Theatre Exchange (3rd Floor Portage Place)

Dancer Arrival Time 5:30 PM

Performance Time  6:45  – 10:00 PM  *please note recital length is estimated for the latest possible scenario,  end time may vary

Dancers are asked to stay for the entire recital to take part in the Finale. 

RECITAL TICKETS
All tickets will be sold on-line through Eventbrite.  To purchase tickets, please visit the following link;

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mcconnell-school-of-dance-annual-recital-tickets-34628461661

Tickets $15 Adult  $10 Child (12 & Under))

·         Infants who do not require  a seat are  free admission

·         Dancers do not require a ticket

·         All Sales Finale - No refunds or exchanges on  tickets

·         Special Seating Requirements -  The first two rows will be reserved for individuals with special seating requirements.  If you require special seating, please arrive 10 minutes prior to Doors Opening

CHECK IN

Dancers will need to check in at the performer entrance door at the West end of the lobby.  Parents should accompany dancers under 12 for check-in.  Parents are not permitted in the back stage or dressing room area due to issues of space and privacy.  If you have concerns for your younger child, please contact us in advance to arrange for assistance.

Check in opens 5:30 PM

Please note, with only 1 hour for check-in we will be very pressed to get dancers ready for a 6:45 PM performance time.   Please assist us in keeping to our schedule by;

1) Arriving on time, please allow for delays with traffic and parking.

2) All Beginner, Novice, and Preliminary dancers are asked to arrive in costume wearing socks, with wig & make-up applied.  There is a restroom in the lobby for parents to change dancers prior to check-in (arrive earlier than 5:30  PM if you plan to change your dancer at PTE) .  Please have dancers fully ready and in costume for check-in at 5:30 PM

RECITAL PICK-UPS

Please allow 15  minutes after the recital is over before you pick up dancers at the performer entrance.  Children under 12 will not be excused without a parent.  If someone other than a parent/guardian (as per your registration form) will be picking your child up, please let the check -in volunteer know. 

DRESSING ROOMS    

The dressing room is co-ed due to venue constraints.  Parents are not allowed in dressing rooms due to limitations of space and privacy issues. 

COSTUMES

Beginner, Novice, Preliminary Dancers should  arrive in costume, wearing  socks with wigs and make-up applied. 

*Novice, Preliminary, Intermediate, Adult should dancers bringing a basket or box (preferably collapsible) clearly labeled with their name to keep their hard shoes and costume accessories.

*Make sure all shoes/costume pieces and garment bags are clearly labeled with first and last name for dressing room and backstage help.

MAKE-UP

Make-up is recommended for all dancers as stage lighting washes out natural colour and makes performers look pale. All make-up should be applied prior to check in.

FULL STAGE MAKE-UP is suggested for all dancers at recital.  Full stage make-up is applied heavier than daily use make-up.

MAKE-UP RECOMMENDATIONS

• Foundation (to match skin tone) and powder to prevent shine
• Eye-shadow (brown, beige, copper shades)
• Mascara (brown or black) ,
• Blush (pink)
• Lip Stick
• Dancers wearing poodle socks should cover up unsightly bruises on legs and knees with foundation and make-up.  
• Nail Polish is not allowed for performances and should be removed at home. Jewellery (rings, bracelets, earrings) may not be worn for performances with the exception of wedding rings and medical alert bracelets

PERSONAL ITEMS

• Deodorant should be worn by all Novice, Preliminary, Intermediate, Adult and Advanced dancers. Crowded dressings rooms can get extremely smelly when filled with sweaty dancers and can rapidly become unpleasant for all concerned.
• Please assist us by making sure dancers are clean and freshly washed for performances.
• It is important that all developing female and adult dancers wear maximum support bras and /or sports bras while dancing, to prevent bounce and injury.
• Dress shields should be used by all dancers, regardless of age. Dress shields help prevent odour and stains from sweating when pinned in the underarms of costumes. Removable / washable dress shields are available at sewing and fabric stores in the city.

IRISH DANCE WIGS

Wigs are optional for all dancers.  Dancers who choose not to wear a wig should have their hair pulled back off their face and curled, if possible.

All dancers should arrive with wigs on.  Dressing-room volunteers do not have time to assist dancers apply wigs. 

IRISH DANCE SHOES

Soft & Hard Shoes should be cleaned prior to the performance and polished so they shine. 

• All dancers with shoe changes (with the exception of beginners) should have a folding dance box to keep their shoes and water bottles organized back stage

SOCKS & TIGHTS

Poodle socks should be clean and bright white.  If you use your poodle socks for practice and they are looking grey, please bleach them or purchase a new pair before the performance.

• Sock Glue will be provided to all dancers courtesy of MSDSA. 
• Dancers who would prefer not to share sock glue for hygiene reasons may choose to purchase their own bottle

Tights (Performance Division & Adult) must be Mondor brand (no exceptions) and free from runs or holes.  We recommend you have an extra pair handy in case they run at the show. 

PARENT INFORMATION

Parents are not allowed in dressing rooms due to limitations of space and privacy issues. 

Please arrive on time as dancers need time to change, warm –up, and practice with their group.

Generally, there are line up’s at check in and check out, so please be understanding with your check in volunteer.  It is essential for our dancer’s safety that all precautions are taken when working with large groups of children at events open to the public.  Recitals can run late, so your patience is necessary should there be delays at pick up at the dressing room.

SNACKS & DRINKS

ABSOLUTELY NO FOOD OR DRINKS IN THE THEATRE

Please send your child with adequate healthy snacks and drinks clear liquids only.   Dancers who bring sodas, juices, or drinks which may stain costumes will not be allowed to drink them in the dressing room. 

Avoid sticky or messy snacks as dancers will not be allowed to eat them back stage or in the dressing room.

Snacks to avoid –  Flavoured potato chips, buttered popcorn, chocolate bars, Danishes & pastries, chocolate covered granola bars, gum, juices, sodas, sugared or sweet candy. 

• Please send nut free snacks as we do have students with serious anaphylactic allergies.

MSDSA FUNDRAISING

Bake Sale & Flowers

Our Performance and Competitive Division will be selling baking & congratulatory flowers for dancers at the recital. 

Stock Your Summer Raffle 2017

Proceeds supporting the Competitive Division

Tickets on sale now 3/$5

Prizes are Liquor Mart gift cards for $500, $300, $200

Draw Date: May 27^th   (at the Canada Feile)

Thank you for your support of our Student’s Association!

Best wishes to all our dancers for a great performance at our 69^th Annual Recital.   We know you’ll make us all very proud!

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us

Thank you,

MSDSA - Stock your Summer Raffle 2017

McConnell School of Dance Student’s Association is pleased to announce our next Competitive Division fundraiser!

Stock Your Summer Raffle 2017

Proceeds supporting the Competitive Division

Tickets on sale now 3/$5

Prizes are Liquor Mart gift cards for $500, $300, $200

Draw Date: May 27^th   (at the Canada Feile)

If interested in selling or purchasing – please contact us!

Tickets available for purchase during regular studio hours   

MSDSA Meeting - Sat May 6th, 2017

MSDSA Meeting Notice

MSDSA “McConnell School of Dance Student’s Association” will be holding a meeting on Saturday, May 6^th 3:45 PM at the studio. 

All parents and +18 dancers  are welcome to attend!

Thank you,

McConnell School of Dance Student’s Association

32 Barberry Rd, Wpg MB   Canada  R2J2G9

(204) 793-8557   msdsa@mcconnelldancers.com