This week the Canberra Theatre transformed into explorations of 'attractiveness' in society, impacts of urbanisation and the importance of multicultural history, among 54 other topics...
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About 1400 experienced and experimenting dancers from 35 Canberra schools took centre stage for Ausdance ACT's 31st annual Youth Dance Festival.
But this year was a little different.
"I've now choreographed an opening flashmob-style piece which we're involving as many of the students each night as we can," creative director and choreographic mentor Jamie Winbank said.
He's taken knowledge from half a decade of working with the festival to his new role, aiming to keep traditional aspects while "re-energising it a bit to give it a bit more excitement."
Canberra Girls Grammar student Shannon Coates, 18, has participated in the household event since she was in year seven, this year helping choreograph her school's two pieces.
"Our first piece is Welcome to the Madhouse, meant to be quiet scary... our second piece is a spin on the Men in Black story," she said.
She said the dances have "definitely become more modern and vibrant" over time.
"This year there are no presenters and we can be more flexible with introducing the pieces and with creativity and the lighting."
Mr Winbank said it's a unique opportunity nation-wide because of its inclusiveness and non-competitiveness.
"I know there are kids up there who have been dancing a long time and others who've never danced a step in their life, so it's such a varied ability that makes it really special," he said.
Festival director Danielle White said this provides an opportunity for students to create something of pride without judgement and express themselves wholeheartedly.
"What I've noticed is they get on this big professional stage and their confidence just grows," she said.
Not only do the performers grow, but media college kids from around Canberra and as far away as Canada get a taste of show business through work experience at the theatre.
16-year-old Tess Trainor from Campbell high aspires to be a performer and has participated both on and behind the Youth Dance Festival stage.
"Doing work experience here has been an amazing experience. I think it's really important to see everything that goes on backstage so you don't take the actual performing for granted," she said.
Mr Winbank stressed the event is largely a product of the students' own imagination and initiative, by choosing their own topics, moves and music.
And 2015 is apparently more popular than ever.
"It grows every year... it's a household name in Canberra," Ms White said.
"I think that's a sign that we're doing the right thing."
