The Planoettes traveled to Orlando, Fla. last month, where they attended the Disney Dancin’ Workshop and spent time having fun at the Disney parks.

“At the workshop, we learned a short dance and they told us the audition process for Disney performers,” Planoette captain senior Lily Ferkany said.

The group travels to different places every year, usually to participate in competitions or special workshops.

This is the third time the Planoettes have gone to Disney. Their director, Meredith Walraven, worked for almost a year making sure everything was organized and ready to go.

Last year’s trip destination was Galveston, where they attended a competition.

“I went on the trip last year, and it was so much fun,” senior Lora Kim said. “We won first place in our division at that competition, so that was really exciting.”

Although they did not participate in a competition on this excursion, the Planoettes were filled with anticipation for the upcoming event.

“I’m really excited and in the Disney spirit,” Kim said. “I know this is going to be a trip none of us will ever forget.”

The captains were just as enthusiastic as the rest of the girls before they left for Disney.

“I’m excited to spend time with my team and bond even more as we experience the magic of Disney together,” Ferkany said.

At the workshop, the team worked with one of the Disney cast members where they learned several routines that they were able to perform.

“They got to do a mock audition to see what the process is for being a dancer at Disney,” Walraven said. “They also got to perform for the chaperones on a Disney stage and it was really neat.”

The Planoettes were able to hear about what it was like to work at Disney as a dancer and performer as well.

“We have had a lot of girls in the past that have gone on to do the Disney internship through their colleges,” Walraven said. “One was there, and we got to see her.”

The visit to Orlando not only served as a learning experience, but it allowed the Planoettes to relax in the midst of a busy season.

“It was a good experience for our team to come together and just have a good time,” Walraven said.

While the Disney trip serves as a fun break from the usual school activities, the Planoettes are also extremely busy preparing for many upcoming events this season, including three competitions (two regional and one national) as well as a spring show.

“We have a lot of shows that we’ve been preparing for since the end of football season for all of our spring competitions,” Kim said. “It is also the 50th anniversary of the Planoettes this year, so that makes our spring show a little more special as well.”