Triangle Dance Center Gets Creative Amid The Coronavirus Pandemic

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Cindy Dalrymple, the owner of Triangle Dance Center, got creative when the coronavirus pandemic put a damper on their spring dance recital in June and came up with a way to host it in a unique way at the Somerset Patriots Stadium.

"I think everyone was overjoyed and excited to actually do something in person and together," said Dalrymple.

The safe, socially distanced dance showcase was held on Oct. 8 at the stadium in Bridgewater.

"It was a fantastic night and we were so happy to be able to wrap up the previous season and to provide this opportunity to our dancers," said Dalrymple.

This showcase was a big feat for the group who had to "hit pause" on their season over the summer due to the virus.

"We wanted to wait until we could do something in person. We wanted to offer an in-person experience as opposed to virtually," said Dalrymple.

Dalrymple explored many options to try and give her dancers an in-person experience. Then on Sept. 8, she was able to start holding outdoor rehearsals at the pavilion at the Polish Falcon's Nest in Hillsborough.

The dancers would rehearse 5 days a week for 5 weeks outside.

"Some days it was raining, pouring, and some days it was muggy, it was hot," said Dalrymple. "It was a long haul to get from the starting line to finish at Patriots Stadium but we made it. It was great to see the kids in their costumes doing their dances and having their families there."

While the pandemic has been hard, Dalrymple says she is continuing to offer in-person and virtual classes to students. The fall season will run through Dec. 2 and enrollment is open.

"It's really been a time for everyone to get creative to keep pushing forward for the kids and show them that it's possible," said Dalrymple. "They just have to adapt, be patient, and work hard."

Triangle Dance Center is located at 381 Triangle Rd. in Hillsborough. For more information visit triangledance.com or facebook.com/triangledancecenter.

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