Students of the In Motion School of Dance are putting the finishing touches to their 12th annual dance showcase, which opens at City Hall theatre tonight.

In Motion's owner/artistic director Lizz Pimentel said: "This year's theme is 'Dance Radio', and will take the audience through the airwaves with a big variety of musical choices and dance numbers tied into what radio stations would present."

The two-hour programme will feature various dance genres – ballet, pointe, modern, jazz and tap – set to different music styles, with appropriate sets and costumes. Performing will be students of all the classes, including those in the senior level company, 'Concepts in Motion'.

"In Motion uses a theme for its annual showcase as a way of tying everything in, and bringing everyone involved, teachers, students and their parents, together as a family so they understand not only how the choreography relates to the overall production, but also what it takes to mount a successful production," Ms Pimentel added.

The owner/artistic director paid tribute to the parents who volunteer wherever they are needed backstage, and who also help to make the costumes.

"They are a great team, very positive and supportive, and we couldn't do it without them. A production is run like a tight ship."

This year's cast will include all ages from tots to former dance students who are currently pursuing degree courses abroad, and even Cheche the dog. "Cheche always makes his annual showcase appearance, and every year the kids ask, 'What is Cheche doing this year?' so he has become a tradition," said Ms Pimentel.

She founded the In Motion School of Dance in 1997. Currently, it trains hundreds of students in various dance disciplines, of which ballet is the foundation. Many have gone or are going on to study dance or dance education in prestigious programmes abroad, including the North Carolina School of the Arts, the State University of New York at Purchase, the New World School of the Arts, and the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama in Edinburgh.

"It is a good indication of our ability to train our dancers well, and I am very proud of them," Ms Pimentel, herself a former dancer, added.

On the value of dance in a child's overall development, Ms Pimentel said: "In today's environment, discipline doesn't seem to be as important as it used to be years ago, and it is important for children to have both discipline and routine in their lives.

"There are a lot of children who don't have that, so to be able to come to a place and know that they are supported and encouraged is a really positive thing for a lot of students. It is also a means for them to express themselves. Dance teaches them class etiquette and manners; to prepare in a certain way; how to manage time efficiently; to have respect for their teachers; and experience working in a studio environment."

'Dance Radio' will be performed at City Hall theatre from today to May 16, with matinees tomorrow and Sunday. Curtain time for evening performances is 7 p.m., and 2 p.m. for matinees. Tickets (adults $39, students/children $29) are available from BermudaTix.com and www.inmotion.bm