Daedream offers students a chance to dance, act, sing or run the stage in front of an audience at least once in their lives.
Daedream is an afterschool program in which students not only learn to dance, but also learn values like teamwork, respect, self-confidence and caring for one another.
About 80 students from second to eighth grade participate in Daedream. The coaches for the program are all Mauro-Sheridan alumni that now attend high school or college. Overall, there are over 110 people working together to make Daedream a success.
The leader of Deadream is Ms. Kim Francis, a teacher at Mauro-Sheridan.
“My dad raised me on musicals, and I wanted kids to have the opportunity to participate in theater and dance free of charge,” she said in a recent interview. “Daedream is fun because it is a positive, home-like environment for kids, and it’s a great way for kids to express themselves and their creativity,” she said.
Everyone has a different reason why they like participating in Daedream.
“I like to dance because I get to show my moves and move my body,” said Eleana Jackson, 5th grade.
“Daedream is fun because it is exercise for you, you get to know friends much better and show your inspiration by dancing,” said Raul Saucedo from grade 5.
“I like Daedream because it gets you back in shape and you can get all your energy out. Daedream is fun because you don’t have to sit at home playing video games. Ms. Francis is my inspiration and I like my other mentors, too,” said Christian Parker, 5th grade.
This year for the first time, the advanced dance group won several awards in a state-wide competition.
“I like Daedream because I want to encourage people to stand on stage and not be afraid,” said Luis Rivera, in 5th grade.
“I love dancing because it puts me in a good mood and makes me happy,” said Alexander Oquendo, 5th grade.
This year is the 30th anniversary of Daedream, originally known as the Dramatic Art Ensemble. The show, called “Fear Itself,” is set for Friday and Saturday, June 1 and 2, 2018 at 6 p.m. at Career Regional High School. Tickets can be purchased from any cast member or director. They cost $5 in advance, and if you are a Mauro-Sheridan student, you can get in for only $2 with an accompanying adult! Anyone can purchase tickets at the door, also, for $7. Come out and support the program and have a great time!