The Thompson Dance Studio Civic comeback well worth the wait

DOZENS of young dancing stars took to the stage to show the fruits of two years of practice in an showcase for parents, supports and dance enthusiasts.

The Thompson Dance Studio, based at Thames Street in the town centre, took over the Rotherham Civic theatre last Thursday and Saturday to stage Small Wonders and The Rhythm of TDS.

The performers ranged in age from three to 20 and put on a selection of ballet, tap, jazz and musical theatre routines for their first show since 2020.

Principal Monika Richards said: “Because its our 25th year, we picked songs weve done in previous shows — it was a bit of a mix as we just wanted to do a nice evening of entertainment.

“From our youngest Small Wonder to our oldest Rhythm of TDS student, every one of our students shone so brightly on that stage and we are so unbelievably proud of them all.”

Monika, who thanked her team of dance teachers, said the “turmoil and uncertainty” of the last couple of years had made it feel extra worthwhile to be back performing in public.

She added: “Through the pandemic, we’ve carried on with the help of Zoom and they have all been very loyal so it was really great to be back in the theatre and in front of an audience.

“There is a friendly competition between the dancers but everyone gets their chance to shine.

“We are very family-oriented and wouldn’t be able to carry on without parental support we couldnt do it without them.”