Prairie Fusion Arts & Entertainment recently received a massive donation of performance costumes for their dance program.

Executive Director Stefanie McKim outlines how this came to be.

"When this pandemic came down, because we do also run dance classes and house the dance studio, I became part of the Manitoba Dance Studio Response Group," explains McKim. "Unfortunately, there have been a number of independently owned studios that have had to close their doors because it's just not financially feasible for them to continue anymore."

She explains it was one of these studio's devastating losses that resulted in their gain, as the studio Magic 'n Motion chose to donate their extensive performance costume collection to Prairie Fusion.

One of the glittery costumes from Magic 'n Motion.McKim says the costumes are currently being catalogued but notes there are easily over a hundred different pieces; from classical ballet tutus, to sparkly jazz jumpsuits, to character costumes and props. She says the variety of costumes is particularly exciting as Prairie Fusion has created their own dance ensemble, and these costumes will primarily be worn by ensemble members. She notes the costume catalogue will also be available for classes in the recreational dance program.

"We know that there are a lot of costs associated with extra-curricular activities, especially when you start to combine costumes and stuff like that," explains McKim. "While we know that many of our students do enjoy purchasing costumes because they are theirs to keep, there will be the option of accessing our costume catalogue as well."

McKim says Prairie Fusion is very grateful to have received the costumes, explaining when Jennifer Wong-Lylyk of Magic 'n Motion made the decision to donate the costumes, she was passing along a piece of her studio's legacy.

"It was really like she was giving us a piece of her heart," says McKim, adding, "we assured her that we would provide a good home for them and they would be well loved here."