Dance Camp

Art, it can transend language and ages. This is why Celebration Ministry of Arts was so excited to host the kids Friday afternoon, before they headed off to Fort Fun. We started with half of the kids with us, about 15 CMA dance campers and an acting teacher. We played games, showing the kids how to use their bodies and faces to convey stories and emotions. Not all the kids got into it right away, but after some prodding, Vlad was the one who stole my heart. We parred up to play “human sculptures” and other miming games with all the students for the next half an hour. I was amazed at his expressions and the creativity that began to shine through. He was a different kid then the one I had to give the “pouty lip” to in order to come play.

After acting was finished, and the rest of the kids had arrived, it was time for some dancing. We taught everyone some simple Israeli line dancing like the “Grapevine” and “Friendship Dance” and this was when everyone really joined in with full force!

After the group dancing, one of our teachers got up to share her testimony with the kids. This teacher shared of her own difficult past and how God had intervened in her life to teach her that he was more than just a Savior. That he could be Father, Protector, Healer and Comforter. After sharing a very relevant life story, she shared a dance that expressed this story. Even though the song was in English, the kids faces were so drawn to her, I knew that her story and facial expressions during the dance were tugging on hearts and minds.

After all of our time dancing and acting, all of the CMA dance camp students shared lunch with the UOO campers. It was great to see the little interactions, smiles and exchanges that I know will not be forgotten easily.

-Alyssa Reilly

One Response to “Dance Camp”

1. Kendra Helgesen says:

   July 23, 2010 at 3:26 pm

   Yay!!! We had so much fun with the kids! (not to mention witnessing the power of God Almighty)
   Thanks so much Alyssa and the sweet orphan outreach people!