Sarah L’Abbe has been dancing for 13 years. (submitted photo/Sarah L’Abbe)

By Nigel Maxwell

National spotlight

Prince Albert dance instructor voted national ambassador

Nov 1, 2023 | 2:34 PM

Prince Albert’s Sarah L’Abbe has earned the right be the face and voice for a national dance organization.

The 18-year-old has been voted the 2024 national ambassador for the Canadian Dance Teachers’ Association (CDTA). She’s also the first person ever to hold the title.

“It’s such an incredible and exciting experience to represent myself as a dancer and my studio too,” she told paNOW, when contacted on Wednesday.

(Submitted/ Sarah L’Abbe)

L’Abbe, who attends Performing Arts Warehouse, has been dancing since she was five years old and began competing she was nine. She’s also been assisting with teachers since 13 and now runs her own classes including jazz, modern and ballet.

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“I’ve had multiple jobs with kids and I love working with them. They’re so much fun and just being a part of thar experience that I’m being a person that can introduce them to something I know has been my passion my whole life,” L’Abbe explained.

L’Abbe also added teaching also gives her more opportunity to dance.

As the first ambassador of the CDTA, L’Abbe responsibilities will include sharing her personal dance experiences on social media through videos and images. She will also have a free promotional photoshoot for the organization. Noting she felt some pressure during the application process, she said she looks forward to the opportunity.

(submitted photo/Sarah L’Abbe)

The actual application process started about a month ago and after reviewing the submissions, the selection narrowed it down to just three. L’Abbe was in the final along with two dancers from Nova Scotia.

“It was the first time I really realized how big the organization is,” she explained. “It’s the Canadian Dance Teachers’ Association.”

Studio owner Jenna Trawin told paNOW they are excited to have Sarah become the first Canadian Dance Teachers’ Association Ambassador.

“We have always known what a great dance community we have at the studio, this recognition further reinforces this. It’s a team honour,” she said.

Trawin added the studio has been following the Canadian Dance Teachers’ Association (CDTA) examination syllabus for many years, and have seen many dancers complete their exams Primary through to Advanced (Sarah being one of them).

“Sarah has a genuine love for dance and teaching dance. Her dedication and passion continue to help dancers reach their goals and dreams. She has been a role model at the studio for many years, she will be a great ambassador. We are so proud,” she said.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell