Franklin celebrates 16 years of Bayou Beau Dance

FRANKLIN — The City of Franklin marked a milestone on Saturday, July 25 as the Bayou Beaux Summer Dance Program, presented in partnership with E.L.I.T.E. Dance Co., celebrated its 16th season with two recital performances at the Teche Theatre for the Performing Arts.
The annual showcase featured the program’s youngest dancers during a 1 p.m. recital, followed by performances by older students at 7 p.m. Family members, friends and local residents filled the theater to celebrate the accomplishments of the young performers after weeks of summer instruction.
Mayor Eugene Foulcard thanked everyone who attended and supported the event, describing the recitals as a celebration of the hard work, confidence and growth displayed by the dancers throughout the summer.
The mayor also recognized Dance Instructor LaDaisha Bowles Webber and the E.L.I.T.E. Dance Co. staff for providing a summer program focused on creativity, discipline and personal development for local youth. Appreciation was also extended to the Teche Theatre for the Performing Arts board of directors for its continued support and volunteer efforts, as well as to Bret Casselman, master builder, who created a commemorative Sweet Sixteen cake and candles for the celebration.
Foulcard also thanked parents and guardians for enrolling their children in the city’s summer recreation programs, noting that their involvement helps keep young people active, engaged and learning during the summer months.
In addition to the Bayou Beaux Dance Program, the City of Franklin offered a variety of summer activities, including basketball leagues, access to wading pools and programs at both community centers. The mayor also highlighted the continued growth of the city’s summer feeding program, which provides nutritious breakfasts and lunches to children throughout the summer.
The mayor concluded by recognizing Chris Barrilleaux, Rodney Monette and the staff at the city’s community centers for their dedication to providing meaningful recreational opportunities for local youth.
“It truly takes a community working together to create opportunities for our children,” Foulcard said. “I couldn’t be more proud of what we’ve accomplished together this summer.”