The Tivoli Dance Troupe will this Sunday, June 30, celebrate its 30th season of dance with the staging of its annual recital Applause, which is scheduled to be held at the Little Theatre on Tom Redcam Drive.

The show, according to organisers, will feature new works as well as pieces already taken to the stage.,

Jennifer Morgan-Garwood, artistic director, Tivoli Dance Troupe, told the
Jamaica Observer, “You can expect an exciting and entertaining evening from our repertoire of our gold medals and national awards from the JCDC Dance Festival of 2024 and remount of old favourites. It will be unforgettable and, most importantly, it will help in sustaining the programmes of the troupe,” said Morgan-Garwood.

Established in 1976, the Tivoli Dance Troupe (an affiliate of Tivoli Gardens High School) serves as an avenue to keep the graduates active in the art of dance and as role models for younger dancers.

The troupe comprises present and past students as well as youngster from across Corporate Area schools.

“The troupe has been using dance as a motivator [or] instrument of transformation. Dance plays an important role in the lives of these youngsters, creating a positive light and making an invaluable contribution to our culture and community,” Morgan-Garwood shared.

Asked what has kept the troupe going all these years, Morgan-Garwood said: “I personally think it’s the overall success of the troupe, and people wanting to be a part of a good thing.”

Over the years, the troupe has taken on a holistic approach, which attempts to develop ‘the complete person’ — reading hour, lessons in social graces, etc.

The annual dance showcase is the sole fund-raising initiative by the troupe to be able to help members with their tuition expenses, school supplies, uniforms, and cultural excursions.

Nyla Elliott said being a part of the troupe has impacted her life positively.

“I’ve been a part of the Tivoli Dance Troupe since I was 4 years old. The dance troupe has… made me into the dancer that I am today. Over the years, with the troupe, I have experienced some wonderful opportunities while spreading the love of dance,” Elliott told the Observer.

Her colleague Brittania DaCosta concurred.

“I have been dancing since I was 5 years old. Now I am 29 years old. It’s a blessing to be a part of this group because it teaches you the 3Ds (discipline, dedication, and determination). It has taught me so much over the years and has moulded me into the young lady I am today. Twenty-four wonderful years thus far, I am so grateful,” she said.