Hosted each October, the Sweetheart dance has become one of Gretna High School’s most beloved traditions. This year’s event, set for Saturday, Oct. 11, will once again be organized by the GHS Dance Team.
“We get dads and daughters, or it doesn’t even have to be dads and daughters, it can be like moms and daughters to come and dance,” senior Brooke Hamele said.
Hamele, a four-year member of the dance team, said she looks forward to this tradition every year. The dance will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the main gym at GHS, filling the space with music, laughter and memories.
“There’s a theme, and then the kids come with their dads all dressed up and we play games, and we dance in the gym and we do crafts, and it’s so much fun,” junior Ava Vescio said.
The dance offers families a chance to connect and enjoy an evening together while supporting the dance team.
“People should come because it’s actually a great bonding activity for a father and daughter, or just a couple,” Hamele said.
Guests can expect a variety of fun activities throughout the night, from music and dancing to games, crafts and even a live DJ.
“I am so excited it’s gonna be great, I’m excited to dress up in my little sock hop outfit,” Hamele said.
As one of the team’s biggest annual projects, the dancers are responsible for organizing and running the entire event.
“We have to make sure all the kids are safe and we have to make sure that everyone is having a good time and enjoying it,” Vescio said.
Tickets for the dance will cost $45 per couple, with an additional $10 per sibling.
“During the event, we have someone usually running social media, last year we went on like a live and that was kinda fun, a lot of people tuned in,” Hamele said.
Proceeds from the dance go directly toward the team, helping fund their competitions and travel expenses. Dancers also spend the night interacting with the little girls and helping them make memories on the dance floor.
“We throw it to raise money. It’s our biggest fundraising thing like throughout the entire year, and we get to go to Nationals,” Hamele said.
Fundraising is super important to the team as it allows them the ability to access many amazing opportunities that dance brings.
Each year, the team travels to Orlando, Florida, to compete at UDA Nationals, as well as in regional and local competitions. These opportunities are a major highlight for the dancers, and a big reason why fundraising is essential. The event helps reduce travel costs and makes those experiences possible for everyone on the team.
“Just have fun, like don’t be stressed about the night,” Hamele said. “It’s such a fun time.”
The dance is a good way to have a fun night and try something new. For all who are interested, registration can be found on the @gretnadance Instagram.
