UNITY — Stepping on stage can be frightening for some, regardless of how big it can be. But to stand on a world stage, competing with more than 30 countries, was no feat for the young Keira Schumack.
The acrobatic dancer was the only Saskatchewan resident to be selected in the junior age division for Team Canada’s acrobatic dance team. After spending most of her summer travelling and training in Vancouver, B.C., the 15-year-old was also fundraising to help cover the additional expenses of competing in the International Dance Organization (IDO) World Championships, which took place in Milan, Italy, from Nov. 17 to 22.
Shumack shared that training became more stressful closer to competition time.
“It was more serious; everyone knew it was getting close, and they had to work hard. Our coach, Lexy Cox, pushed us to our absolute limits, but that would lead us to how amazing we did,” she said.
Along with being in the large group formation, Schumack also danced in a small group formation and performed a solo. The smaller group placed fourth, while the larger group placed second and received silver medals. She qualified for the semifinals with her solo and placed 17th globally.
“Keira’s podium finish and strong standing in her other categories highlighted the incredible progress she made this season. She has made so many local fans who all love to mention how they saw her online and how wonderful of an artist she is, and how proud she has truly made her community,” said mom, Ashley.
Shumack shared that this experience made her work harder than ever, changing how she ate, going to the gym and getting into the studio at every chance she could.
“You may be born with talent, but there is always something to work on. In the real world, things don’t just come easy for you; you need to work towards it, and if you care enough and have the passion to do it, you can do anything in life,” she added.
Shumack said going to Italy was her first time travelling abroad, and shared the trip with her mom, Ashley, and dance teacher at Stand Out Dance Collective, Courtney Smith.
“I was anxious, I couldn't take my eyes off her as she paced in the wings prior to the performance. At one point, she sent me an SOS message, and I rushed down, worried she might be hurt or feeling sick. Instead, she simply needed a long, tight hug — one that felt like it lasted forever. And then, just minutes later, she stepped onto that world stage and made us so incredibly proud,” said Shumack’s mom.
Since returning home from Italy, Shumack’s life has returned to normal, attending school and back at the SODC studio for dance. She shared how much she will miss everything and everyone she worked with, especially her teammates.
“I grew so close to every single person on the team; it felt like I have known them for years. These girls mean the world to me, and it was so hard to say goodbye — there were a lot of tears.”
The acrobatic dancer also wanted to recognize all those who helped her along the way.
“To my sponsors, donors, and those who supported my fundraisers — our community made my dream come true, and I am forever grateful for that.”
“This was a significant financial undertaking, and the support made an incredible difference. Because of the generosity, encouragement and belief in Keira, this life-changing, truly transformative experience was made possible. Gary and I are so deeply grateful,” said Ashley.
Shumack plans to continue dancing after high school, hopefully on cruise ships or with a dance company, travelling the world and doing the thing she loves the most.
“Dance has always been my way out of dark places. Wherever I was upset, I would walk to the studio, blast music, and just dance. I truly do not know what I would do without dance.”
