Jodi Purgahn

The Honey Bears will host a spring show on May 3.

While many might only attribute drill team to football season, that assumption actually is wrong. LCM’s very own Honey Bears are a prime example of this, with their season continuing all the way to this month. Anyone who has been missing their favorite dancers can go to their Spring Show Friday, May 3 to watch many performances. 

“Our Spring Show will lead you through each decade with fun and entertaining performances,” director Mikayla Wappler said. “These numbers have been choreographed by both directors, the senior and officer team members, and three guest choreographers.” 

While the show does follow their theme: “Decades,” the main purpose is not only to take a time machine back. The show’s focus is to feature a variety of competition pieces from all of the dancers. 

“The Honey Bear Spring Show is a showcase of all the dances we have worked on all year,” director Callie Choate said. “The performances range from solos to small group acts and even our new members.” 

Although some of the dances might have been used as competition pieces, planning for the showcase is not as easy as it might seem.  

“Practices for our three team routines and officer routines (competition routines) begin in December,” Wappler said. “The team will learn the remaining routines and choreography after their last competition. The Spring Semester is extremely busy. The team, officers, small groups, etc. practice consistently throughout but the team practices the full Spring Show every day during show week. The girls are dedicated to staying and practicing as late as necessary to put on a fantastic show!” 

For the seniors, their spring show performance will be their last dance with the team before they go on to their futures. So, both directors have advice they would like to tell the seniors for whatever their future may hold. 

“To the seniors: keep dancing,” Choate said. “Find ways to dance even after you’re done with drill team. Stay open: Stay open to learning new things, both in dance and in life. Be ready for change: Graduation means big changes are coming, so be ready for them. Celebrate: Make sure to celebrate your achievements. Lastly, I hope you stay excited: keep your passion for dance alive, no matter what.” 

Wappler’s advice to the girls is to not fear change, and she quotes John C. Maxwell to tell them that “change is inevitable, growth is optional”. However, the graduating seniors are not the only ones undergoing change at the show, since the new officers will have their ranks announced as well. 

“When selecting officers, Mrs. Wappler and I are looking for individuals who have leadership skills, are responsible and respectful, and can communicate thoroughly,” Choate said. “We also look for individuals who are committed to bettering the team and always have a positive attitude!” 

Not only did the directors have advice for the seniors, but for their new officers and team as well. 

“Always strive to do better and be better,” Wappler said. “Remember that you were once new and learning everything that it means to be on a Drill Team. Be patient and kind to yourself and your teammates.” 

All around, a lot of big things are happening at the Honey Bears Spring Show, and according to Wappler, it’s a must see. 

“Do not miss Spring Show 2024,” Wappler said. “This team works hard and strives to do their best at each performance. Ms. Choate and I are proud of the growth we have seen within this team and program every year; we hope to see you there supporting their hard work!”