Dancers from Yarrawonga’s Sun Country Dancers arrive at Disneyland ahead of their once-in-a-lifetime performance.
It was the ultimate fairytale moment for 20 dancers from Yarrawonga’s Sun Country Dance Studio who lit up Main Street USA with a dazzling performance at Disneyland in California.
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Studio director Kerry Seamer, who has been teaching dance for 33 years, led a group of 60 dancers, families, and supporters on the unforgettable international trip as part of the Dance the Magic program in March.
“It was just incredible,” Kerry said.
“Our girls performed brilliantly; they were the only international group invited, and they absolutely held their own.”
Coming from small country towns like Yarrawonga and Cobram, the dancers spent months rehearsing through summer and into the new school year before flying out to California.
Their big day began early with hair, makeup, and costumes before hitting the Disney stage for rehearsals, photos, and a dazzling parade performance down Main Street.
The dancers walking through Disneyland on their way to the parade.
“Disneyland really spoiled them … it was amazing,” Kerry said.
“We even had exclusive access to Cars Land from 10pm until midnight; just our dancers and their families enjoying rides, treats, and the full Disney magic without the queues.”
Families enjoyed three-day park passes and extended their adventures with tours of Hollywood, Warner Brothers Studios, and live LA Lakers games.
But the highlight for everyone was seeing a group of small-town dancers shine on one of the world’s biggest stages.
“For me, it was all about watching their faces,” Kerry said.
“Seeing their joy, their confidence, that was everything.”
One of the proudest parents along for the ride was Katie Cummins, whose daughters Lexi, 11, and Grace, 16, both performed.
“The day we left, Lexi turned 11, then thanks to the time difference, she turned 11 again when we arrived,” Katie said.
“So, she got two birthdays and the trip of a lifetime.”
Abbey Dowling performs at Disneyland in the Disney parade.
Katie said she couldn’t have been prouder watching the girls dance through Disneyland.
“They looked like professionals, completely in sync, full of energy, smiling the whole way,” Katie said.
“I was bawling my eyes out.”
The proud mum said what stood out most was how a group of small-town kids could step onto a Disney stage and perform at the same level as large, city-based studios.
“There was no competition, everyone encouraged each other,” Katie said.
“The older girls supported the younger ones, and the parents were all in it together; it really felt like family.”
The night ended in true Disney style with dessert parties, fireworks, and exclusive rides after the park closed.
Dancers Belle Woodward, Bella Seamer, Chelsea Canham and Abbey Michael.
For Kerry, the experience perfectly captured what her studio is all about; small-town spirit and big-stage dreams.
“It’s a lot of work behind the scenes,” Kerry said.
“But seeing these kids accomplish something this big, that’s what makes it all worthwhile.
“We might come from a small regional town, but this proves that talent and heart can take you anywhere.”
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