Blue Angels from James Clemens High School and Liberty Lionettes from Liberty Middle School danced to and sang Christmas music at Heritage Assisted Living and Memory Care. CONTRIBUTED

MADISON – Dance teams from two Madison schools shared their Christmas spirit with an appreciative audience of senior citizens.

James Clemens Blue Angels and Liberty Lionettes performed for individuals at Heritage Assisted Living and Memory Care, 11682 County Line Road on Nov. 30.

“We visited in hopes of giving a blessing to the residents there. In turn, we were the ones who were blessed,” Blue Angels sponsor Rebecca Brooks said.

“Coaches at Liberty, Thomasena Garner and Hillary Bowen, and myself and our assistant coach Katie Weir are thankful to have teams made up of true angels that have a desire to make an impact in our community,” Brooks said.

“Residents had constant smiles as the girls visited, danced and sang Christmas carols. Everyone joined in the singing,” Brooks said.

The dancers sang “Jingle Bells,” “Rudolph,” “Deck the Halls,” “Silent Night,” “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” and more. The girls danced the “Whip/Nae Nae” to “Jingle Bells.”

In addition, they performed routines to “Uptown Funk” and a “Top 40’s Mix,” “which they call ‘Team Routine.’ It showcases dance technique from various genres like hip-hop, pom and jazz,” Brooks said.

The girls’ energy climbed as they saw smiles on the audience’s faces. “Several hugs and sweet words were exchanged between the girls and residents,” Brooks said. “They definitely felt a connection.”

Blue Angels are a ‘standalone’ dance troupe for football and basketball games and regional, state and national competitions. They qualified for national competitions with Universal Dance Association and National Dance Alliance in February 2016 in Orlando.

Girls auditioning for Blue Angels are evaluated on grades, teacher evaluations, discipline, technical skills and performance of a choreographed routine. Dancers must exhibit positive behavior.

“We hope to continue making a positive impact in our community and giving our time and resources to those in need throughout this holiday season,” Brooks said. “We also hope others will join in on our efforts to make an even bigger impact.”