14^th Annual Kinderfest

Participants of the Weiss-Blau Bayern Juniors' Kinderfest

On Sunday, May 4, 2008 the Weiss Blau Bayern Juniors hosted its 14^th annual Kinderfest at the German Canadian Club Hansa. In attendance were children and youth dance groups from all different nationalities; Club Hispano from Toronto, the Jr. Tanzgruppe from the Donauschwaben Club in Toronto, Macedonian Folk Ensemble Ilinden from Mississauga, Orient Dance Company from the Chinese Artists Society of Toronto, Polish Dance Ensemble Cracovia from Brampton, Shiamak’s Indo Jazz Dance Movement from Mississauga, and the Weiss Blau Bayern Juniors. In addition to the dance performances, music was provided by Peter Henkel during the afternoon.

Scott Siegner, one of the group’s dance instructors was M.C. for the afternoon and welcomed the guests and explained the background to the event, "Kinderfest is a festival for children or as I like to put "a celebration of children", focusing on traditional dance and music. It has its roots in Germany and like many traditions was brought here to North America many years ago. What makes our particular Kinderfest a bit different is that it is not just for dance groups of German heritage. Since we live in a multicultural society, we felt it was only fitting to include children from other ethnic groups to come out and celebrate with us in a fun, non-competitive environment. This is our very unique Kinderfest."

Marching into the Hall

The program began with all the dance groups marching into the hall. The dance groups in colourful costumes then performed a variety of dances primarily traditional folk dances to a full house. Both adults and children alike were enthralled with the performances. There was never a dull moment.

Weiss-Blau Bayern Juniors
Orient Dance Company
Danube Swabian Junior Youth Group
Visit the Kinderfest Picture Gallery for more images

During the intermission the Weiss Blau Junior dancers sold tombola tickets which were quickly sold out. The table of over 150 prizes, all for children and youth, were a sight to see and pleased the children who got the winning tickets.

Shianak's Indo Jazz Dance Movement
Macedonian Folk Ensemble Ilinden
Polish Dance Ensemble "Cracovia"
Club Hispano
Visit the Kinderfest Picture Gallery for more images

In addition a draw ticket was given to all the performers for two prizes a fancy picnic backpack and a Super Family Pass donated by the CNE with unlimited midway rides valued at $118.00. The two lucky performers were excited to receive their prizes.

Select your Partner

After the formal performances by the groups, the instructors from Weiss Blau Juniors led all the groups for a community dance. The performers appeared to thoroughly enjoy themselves dancing with each other. The afternoon ended with a piñata and after lengthy banging by many children the candy fell, and all the children scrambled to get their handful. Of course extra candy was strewn on the ground to make sure everyone got some.

The community dance

Food was provided by the kitchen staff which included the traditional snitzel. Hot dogs and drinks were donated for all the performers by the Hansa Haus.

Hit the piñata

It was a wonderful afternoon with the highlight of course being the superb dancing and costumes of the children and youth dance groups. The multi-cultural flavour enhanced the entertainment. We are looking forward to the Weiss Blau Juniors 15^th Kinderfest!