New West Network

Idaho Stampede Dance Team to Host Open Auditions

By J. Gelband, New West Unfiltered 8-14-06

5,6,7,8…So you think you can dance? Now is your chance to prove you got the groove: The Stampede Spirit Dance Team, the Idaho Stampede’s version of the Laker Girls, announced today that auditions are going to be held for the 2006-07 basketball season.

This is huge news for Northwest dancing queens: This year the Stampede has moved up in the minor league basketball ranks; no longer just a team in the CBA, the Stampede is now a team in the NBA Development League with players moving in and out of major NBA teams.

The Stampede will begin its ninth season in November at downtown Boise’s Qwest Arena, and the dance team (they get to be cheerleaders, too) will perform at each of the Stampede's 24 home games.

But before you load up your Riverdance pants or practice your jazz hands, know that this is hip-hop cheerleading, not a call for some TV dance show open to all kinds of styles. Expect competition to be the likes of former Boise State Mainline Dancers and local strippers who fancy themselves professional dancers. Oh, what the heck, all you breakdancers and experimental interpretive dancers, have at it!

As a former member of a crappy local dance team that opened for both Nelly and Sir Mix-a-Lot, I feel confident in reporting that there’s a hierarchy of local dance teams, and the high-energy Stampede Spirit is at the top of the ladder.

So, potential dancers, take note of the list of required credentials: at least 18 years old; high school graduates; and, um, good dance skills. On the unofficial list of credentials: must love lipstick and hairspray.

Judges will host an open audition on Saturday, September 9 at 9:30 a.m. at Studio C Academy of Dance in Eagle. Dancers will be judged on their ability to do choreographed dance routines with a positive attitude, showmanship and energy level. Call the Idaho Stampede office at (208) 388-4667 for more info.