Afterwords from the Producer
As the producer of the 2025 International Kids Festival, I am filled with gratitude, pride, and deep appreciation for the incredible talent, diversity, and unity we witnessed this year. The festival once again proved to be more than just an event—it was a vibrant celebration of our community’s heart and soul.
From the moment the first note of the United States National Anthem echoed across William Land Park—performed beautifully by students from RiverBend Elementary, EPIC Charter School, and Community Outreach Academy—it was clear that this year’s celebration would be one to remember.
Main Stage: A Cultural Mosaic
The Main Stage came alive with performances that highlighted the spirit of youth, multicultural heritage, and artistic excellence. The program began with warm greetings from the Organizers and Elected Officials, followed by a heartfelt Awards Presentation honoring outstanding contributors to our community.
Highlights included:
• A touching ballet performance and theatrical number “A Star Called the Sun” by students of Community Outreach Academy
• A powerful rendition of “Seven Nation Army” and “Eye of the Tiger” by Community Outreach Academy’s middle school
• A joyful Tarantella Napoletana and a unifying performance of “We Are The World” featuring young students from three different schools
• Captivating international dances:
• Polynesian dance by Hui of Hawaii
• A Pan-African dance by Melanin Day School Academy
• The rhythmic DABKE by the Arab Community Center
• Indian dance by the spirited Rancho Rockers
Vocal and dance group “Green Beans,” choreographed by Anastasia Marchuk, brought smiles to every face. The Slavic Chorale Children’s Choir and Youth Orchestra delivered a heartwarming performance of cultural pride, while the Courtyard Cougars Cheer Team electrified the crowd with their cheer and dance.
A Fusion of Movement and Meaning
This year’s lineup was enriched by high-level dance and gymnastics troupes:
• Perspective Gymnastics & Dance Now inspired with their athletic grace
• SacLab brought innovation and energy
• Silver Dance & Arts Studio, led by Dina Michelle Bugayevskaya, showcased elegance and artistic depth
• Soul of Dance Art Ensemble – Fresh Meadow Dance Troupe, choreographed by Huanyu Dou, delivered soul-stirring movement
We were honored to feature Red Lotus Lion Dance by Sacramento State University’s Vietnamese Student Association, a breathtaking symbol of tradition and strength. Islam Karimov’s giveaway was a joyful surprise that added to the excitement of the day.
Spotlight on Honor Dance Academy
A true gem of this year’s stage was the extraordinary showcase by Honor Dance Academy under the brilliant direction of Lei Yang and Ms. Sophia. Their performances—“Happy Polka,” “Dance of Happiness,” “Twin Hair Pins,” “Journey of the Spirit,” and a high-energy Hip-Hop routine—captivated audiences with classical precision, modern flair, and pure joy.
Closing with a Spark
The festival concluded with a dynamic finale by the Ignition Dance Club (choreographer Ilya Ignatyev) and an exuberant show by Maxwell Arts School that left the crowd cheering for more.
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Thank You to All Who Made This Possible
To the educators, choreographers, performers, families, and community partners—your passion and participation made this celebration shine. You helped us create an unforgettable day filled with inspiration, cultural pride, and pure happiness.
Let’s carry this spirit forward and continue building bridges of understanding, joy, and unity through the arts.
Sergey Ivannikov
Producer
International Kids Festival 2025
