July 16, 2022

By Jim Dietz

J31 Dance Center in Lee’s Summit participated in the Symposium Dance Talent Nationals in Branson, MO. To celebrate Symposium’s 40th anniversary, 20 dance studios across the midwest brought 350 dancers to perform 400 routines in 3 divisions: Classic, Select and Elite.

On Thursday, 40 of the dancers that earned Diamond adjudication from regionals during the year, arrived early to learn a routine and participate in a photo and video shoot. The routine was later performed for everyone else during the awards ceremony. Of those dancers, 16 were from J31.

Friday all dancers participated in Intensive classes from Industry dance teachers learning new skills. Saturday and Sunday were filled with 32 hours of competition and awards.

J31 had 31 dancers compete in the various levels and won numerous awards. Some of the highlights are:

Maycie Dietz -Tomorrow (Solo), 1st place overall 12 & under

Gracie Ryan – 13 and over Superstar Challenge winner

Kaylee Blystone – We Don’t Have Forever (Senior Elite Solo), 1st place overall 13& over

Kaylee B & Jenna Richards – Always There (Senior Elite Duo), 1st place 13 & over

California Girls – (Mini Group), Grand Champion

Conga – (Company Senior Elite Group), Grand Champion

Hero – (Production featuring all J31 Company Dancers), 1st Place

J31 wishes best of luck to their graduating seniors: Jess, Kaylee, Tristyn and Allie.

For more information, visit J31 Dance Center on FB or stop by the studio at 2740 NE Independence Ave in Lees Summit.