When Carmelita Millet opened the doors to her faith-based dance school she knew she would be up against some tough competition. God made a way for her.

Over the past 18 months, 61 students have taken classes in ballet, hip-hop and mime at Anointed Steps Dance Ministry.

They will show their stuff in two recitals at City Hall today at 1.30pm and 7pm.

“This show is all about excitement and energy,” Ms Millet said. “It’s going to be amazing. There has definitely been a lot of growth in our students since last year and I know a lot of people who came last year will spot the difference.”

Dance teacher Helena Pipe will host the event. She is also the founder of outreach and empowerment ministry 5 17. Children were able to enjoy dance classes and other activities while learning about God.

“They could not only quote scripture but also understand it and take something from it that applied to their lives,” Ms Pipe said.

The students “really enjoyed” the classes, Ms Millet added.

“They did a lot of community work and went into the old folks’ homes and were outside cleaning the grounds around the dance school,” she said. “So it got them out there in the community, not just behind our four walls, so they could help out.”

She believes everything that has happened since she opened the dance school has strengthened her belief in God.

“With today’s economic situation opening this school has definitely taken my faith to another level,” she said.

“I try hard to make sure my school is affordable for families and at the same time have to be able to keep my doors open, so I’m relying on God to meet my needs and the needs of those families I work with.

“I’ve been able to see the fullness of how the school is functioning and the growth of the children over the last year, which has been really exciting.”

• Recital tickets, $25 and $50, are available at City Hall. Visit Facebook: Anointed Steps Dance Ministry School