FOOTPRINTS, ROOTS, & VERVE
CREO’s faith-based conservatory track includes three ensembles, Footprints, Roots, and The CREO DanceVERVE: Twin Cities which perform at local churches and bi-annually produce a full-length faith-based production. Recent repertory includes productions such as The Nativity, Esther: for Such a Time as This, and The Companion: The Story of Ruth & Naomi. The mission of this conservatory track is to give young dancers an opportunity to grow in faith and to express their faith through art & dance. Because we were created by God in excellence, we encourage our artists to create their work in excellence. “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.” Colossians 3:23
Conservatory Faith-Based Requirements
- Take the ensemble class based on your placement (Footprints/Roots/VERVE)
- Footprints – Take at least 1 ballet class
- Roots/VERVE – Follow the Accelerated Program requirements
- Attend the Summer the faith-based camp/service project and production intensive as applicable by year.
- Attend production rehearsals as applicable by year and season
- Cathedral Dance Festival Performance
- CREO’s Spring Recital (multiple performances possible)
- Conservatory ensembles are also occasionally invited to perform separate repertoire in CREO productions.
Meet CREO’s Faith-Based Ensembles
Footprints – Grades 4-6
Footprints is an opportunity for young dancers to “step in” to Christ-centered expression through dance. Zephaniah 3:17 says the Lord rejoices over us so we in turn rejoice in walking in the ways of the Lord.
Roots – Grades 6+
Roots is an opportunity for dancers to deepen their understanding of Christ- centered expression through dance. Just as roots of a tree spread and anchor the body, the work ofthis company spreads and anchors the body of Christ.
The CREO DanceVERVE: Twin Cities – Grade 8+
Verve refers to a lively spirit animating artistic composition or performance. It is a word that represents great energy and vitality. The CREO DanceVERVE: Twin Cities is CREO’s advanced student company that performs works choreographed by the CREOdirector and staff that explore themes of Christian faith and worship.
What does it mean to be a VERVE dancer?
Dancers may be accepted to the company either as a full company member or as an apprentice. VERVE takes into consideration, but is not solely dependent on:
- Dedication: The CREO DanceVERVE is a considerable commitment in terms of time and focus. VERVE company members are deeply invested in their personal growth as a dancer and in the growth of the VERVE community. Dancers are expected to demonstrate respect, maturity, and a dedicated spirit of participation in all rehearsals, performances, and company events.
- Ability: The CREO DanceVERVE creates dance work that the requires a degree of proficiency in technical genres including ballet, contemporary, jazz, and hip hop. Additionally, the Company relies on improvisation in the choreographic process.
- Showmanship: Dancers in the company are expected to share in the camaraderie of each other’s presence and support. The atmosphere in and around rehearsals should be one of inclusion, respect, and kindness. Consideration will be given to dancers who have demonstrated positive contribution to their dance class communities in these ways.
- Seniority: Dancers who have displayed a dedication to dance through many years of study may be prioritized for company placement. Dancers participating in VERVE for the first time are traditionally cast as apprentices*
- Age: The CREO DanceVERVE is primarily made up of dancers grades 7+.
*Apprenticeship:
Dancers selected to the CREO DanceVERVE for the first time will participate as apprentices. Apprentices have the opportunity to shadow company members as they rehearse and step in when members cannot perform. Every apprentice will dance in at least 1 show during the performance season. Apprentices who demonstrate exemplary attendance, skill, commitment, and attitude have the opportunity to advance to full company members in subsequent seasons.