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| OHCC LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2026 | 15 e Dance Between Performances When people come to watch one of our performances, they see the finished product, the costumes, the smiles, the music, and the routines we've worked so hard to perfect. What they don't see is everything that happens long before we step onto the stage. The real magic takes place week after week during rehearsals. It's in the moments when someone masters a step that once seemed impossible, when a fellow dancer offers a word of encouragement, or when we all burst into laughter after making the exact same mistake. Those are the moments that remind us why we love being part of the Dance Troupe. As we continue preparing for our 2028 production, we are learning much more than choreography. We are building confidence, strengthening friendships, challenging ourselves, and proving that learning never has to stop. Every rehearsal is another opportunity to grow — not just as dancers, but as individuals. One of the wonderful things about our troupe is that everyone has something to contribute. Some members have years of dance experience, while others are discovering new styles for the very first time. We encourage one another, celebrate each success, and understand that progress is made one step at a time. Perhaps that's the greatest lesson dance teaches us. Life isn't just about reaching the destination; it's about enjoying the journey. The performances are certainly exciting, but the friendships we build, the laughter we share, and the memories we create during rehearsals are what truly make this experience so special. If you've ever thought about dancing but weren't sure if you could, remember that every dancer begins with a first step. You may surprise yourself with what you can accomplish when you simply give it a try. Until our next performance, we'll keep practicing, learning, laughing, and dancing our way toward 2028 — one step, one smile, and one friendship at a time. Written by Karla Sando, OHCC Dance Troupe President Ocean Hills Dance Troupe