The annual Holiday Tree Lighting in Reading was graced by the vibrant performance of the Reading Recreation Commission (RRC) Dance Team, captivating the community with their spirited routines and festive cheer. Under the seasoned leadership of Heather Boyer, the dance team showcased not only their artistic talents but also the strong sense of community and teamwork fostered by the RRC.
Heather Boyer, who has dedicated 33 years as the Program Director for the Reading Recreation Commission, resides in Wyomissing and serves as the Programs and Special Events Coordinator. Her extensive experience and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in shaping the RRC into a cornerstone of community engagement since its establishment in 2012. Modeled after the successful Lancaster Commission, the RRC operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, dedicated to enriching the lives of Reading’s youth through diverse recreational programs.
The dance team, a highlight of RRC’s afterschool offerings, falls directly under Heather Boyer’s guidance. Each year, the team begins preparations at the start of the school year, dedicating months to learning intricate choreography for their holiday performances. This year, 26 enthusiastic kids participated in the Holiday Dance, bringing energy and joy to the tree lighting event. The team’s rehearsals take place across two main afterschool locations: 11th and Pike for grades 1-6, and 3rd and Spruce for grades 1-12. These sessions provide a creative outlet for children, allowing them to engage in various activities that promote physical fitness, artistic expression, and social interaction.
Jessica C. Warchal-King of JCWK Dance Lab, who is also the Artist in Residence in Dance at Alvernia University, is dedicated to using dance education and performance to help the kids. Heather partnered with JCWK Dance Lab to enhance the dance program, providing high-quality instruction and opportunities for the children to excel. This collaboration has not only elevated the quality of the performances but also inspired many participants to pursue further opportunities in cheerleading and other dance activities within their schools.
The RRC Dance Team is a melting pot of diverse backgrounds, bringing together two very different groups of kids who celebrate their cultural differences through dance. This diversity enriches the team’s dynamic, fostering an environment where teamwork and mutual respect thrive. Learning to dance with the RRC teaches children invaluable life skills, including cooperation, perseverance, and the importance of working towards a common goal.
Heather Boyer emphasizes the positive impact of the program: “Watching these kids grow, not just as dancers but as individuals, is incredibly rewarding. They learn to support each other, express themselves, and take pride in their achievements.”
As the RRC Dance Team continues to illuminate Reading’s holiday celebrations, the organization invites community members to support their mission. Donations can be made at readingrec.org, ensuring that more children have access to these transformative programs.
The Reading Recreation Commission Dance Team’s participation in the Holiday Tree Lighting is a testament to the power of community, dedication, and the arts in shaping the next generation. As the lights twinkle above, the smiles of the young dancers below reflect a bright future for Reading’s youth programs.
For more information about the Reading Recreation Commission and its programs, visit readingrec.org.
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