Finalists Compete for Spokane Shock Dance Team

…and on to the next round
SpokaneShock.com
01/07/2012

In the world of professional sports, it’s often a numbers game. With only a handful of professional leagues, those who earn a roster spot have to demonstrate outstanding skills. In the world of professional dance, it’s no different.

This past weekend, the Spokane Shock Dance Team hosted its annual open tryout with nearly 50 hopefuls. By the end of the first round, that total was trimmed to 32 – including 13 returning members from the 2011 team.

Dance Team Director Maggie Kazemba opened the audition by teaching a short pom routine. Once the routine was taught, Kazemba put the Dance Team candidates to the test by performing in groups of three in front of a small panel of judges. Each judge scored the candidates on five different categories that included: appearance, choreography, performance, technique, and overall performance. The top-32 scores advanced as finalists.

The finals will be open to the public on January 18th at the Knitting Factory. The doors to the all-ages show open at 6 PM and will begin at 7 PM. Tickets to the event can be purchased in advance for just $5 (by clicking here) or at the door for $7. KHQ’s Stephanie Vigil will host the festivities.

The finalists will perform three routines – including the routine they learned in the first round – at the Knitting Factory.

“In my tenor, there is no question that this is the most talented group we have ever had,” Kazemba explained. “Every spot is up for grabs – returners and rookies alike. It will be the most competitive finals in my coaching experience. It’s going to be a great show and we hope to pack the house with Shock fans!”

To see the event through the lens of team photographer Gary Peterson, click here.

A two-second look back at last year’s finals: