There was a good turnout of parents, grandparents and supporters as 70 youngsters took the stage for a circus-themed dance showcase at the Deluxe Theatre on Sunday.

Ōpōtiki Performing Arts Academy owner Raquel Standen organised two performances, held at 11am and 1pm, and each show attracted audiences of about 300.

Talented dance students aged from three to 12 years old sparkled in their sequin costumes.

“They made us so proud with how beautifully they performed and conducted themselves,” Ms Standen said.

“Remember these young performers had practised once a week for 12 weeks in the lead-up to this event.”

Ms Standen, a qualified dance teacher, has had more than a decade teaching performing arts and dance at Ōpōtiki College.

She formed her own academy three years ago, with Sunday’s event being the fourth major undertaking of its kind held in the past three years.

“The benefit of this job is seeing children really put their hearts into a project such as this one. They chose their own costumes and practised once a week for two terms. Some of them are really shy and for them to get up on stage feeling confident is wonderful to see.

“It’s a privilege to be part of helping them create magical memories to take into future life and it wasn’t all my doing. In this regard I’d like to thank our sound-and-lighting man Sid Thompson, and the volunteer team at the Deluxe.”

Ms Standon is grateful to the Eastbay Community Grant for supporting the event.

“I’m incredibly thankful for all the parents who support our academy; their encouragement allows me to share my passion for the performing arts with this wonderful community. We’re already planning our next production. Next year the academy will open in term two for enrollments.”