YORKTON — The Extravadance Performance Group kicked off their first day of summer holidays June 27 with a barbecue fundraiser.
"We're doing it drive-thru style to keep it convenient," said Kristin Weber Karcha, owner and operator of Extravadance.
The initiative marks the beginning of fundraising efforts for the studio’s 2027 performance group — a cohort of young dancers preparing for a trip packed with workshops and performances in Los Angeles and Disneyland.
"This is our 2027 performance group. They are fundraising. These kids are going to go dance in Los Angeles and do some workshops. They're going to do a parade at Disneyland. They're going to do workshops at Disneyland," said Weber Karcha, adding, "they are probably going to have the best trip of their lives."
Weber Karcha said that the group comprises 26 young dancers, with an average age of eight or nine. Organizing such a trip is no small feat, especially with the current exchange rate.
"We usually do trips every few years. We pushed it a third year because the dollar in the States isn't ideal right now. It also gives us a bit more time to make sure things are good to go with travel down there," said Weber Karcha.
Fundraising will continue in the coming weeks with the group operating canteens at several community events. Their next appearance is at the Saltcoats Canada Day celebrations, followed by running a canteen at the Yorkton Exhibition running from July 2-5, and another three days in Saltcoats — July 18, 19 and 20 — for an event featuring live music.
"A lot of cooking coming up in the next bit," said Weber Karcha said with a laugh.
In addition to flipping burgers, the group is also offering volunteer services for local events.
"If people are looking for designated driver services or someone to run a bar at a wedding they can reach out to us because we also provide services like that," said Weber Karcha.
For those interested in supporting the group or booking services, Weber Karcha encourages people to contact the studio at (306) 621-2818.
