By Josh CohenJune 19, 2015
NASSAU, Bahamas – Regardless of the outcome, each of the 28 finalists vying for 20 spots on the 2015-16 Orlando Magic dance team got all they could ask for during auditions.
Thanks to the Baha Mar Casino and Hotel, they got a free trip to the Bahamas.
They all got a chance to meet several revered figures in the Bahamas and learn about the history and culture of this picturesque island.
And thanks to the outstanding work from photographer Michael Cairns, hair stylists from Stella Luca Salon and makeup artists from MAC Cosmetics, each finalist posed for professional swimwear portraits along the beach outside Baha Mar.
It doesn’t end there.
The finalists performed on stage at the Baha Mar Convention Arts & Entertainment Center in front of a jam-packed, in-person audience and for thousands watching live on OrlandoMagic.com.
And most importantly, they all got a chance to bond with one another and share laughs that will last a lifetime.
While it was a difficult proposition for the judges, only 20 could be selected for the squad. And while disappointing for those that didn’t hear their names called at the end, this experience was undeniably worth the attempt.
For 15 dancers, a dream will be relived. Alex, Bethany, Brittany, Cassie, Elyse, Gizelle, Jamie, Kori, Krystle, Lauren, Lily, Nicole F., Rachel, Victoria Q. and Victoria R. will rejoin the team and add to their growing collection of amazing experiences as a Magic Dancer.
“Hearing my name called was definitely a relief and the best feeling,” said Gizelle, a now four-year Magic Dancer veteran. “I’m looking forward to being on the court again with the girls and getting to perform and doing what I love best in the community.”
“It’s a dream come true to be on the team for a fourth season,” Elyse said. “Everyone here (Baha Mar) has been so kind to us. Everything was perfect. It’s been amazing.”
For the remaining five dancers, this is all just the beginning of a dream come true. Cierra, Kiki, Nicole H., Molleigh and Sarah will now have the opportunity to experience all the wonderful things that come with being a part of the Magic organization. That includes entertaining fans at Amway Center during Magic games, spending invaluable time in the community and growing friendships with their new teammates.
“Words can’t explain it,” an emotional Cierra said. “We have already formed a great bond over the last two weeks together and I'm looking forward to continuing that with the girls. It was an incredible experience here in the Bahamas.”
2015-16 Orlando Magic Dancer Audition Content
Photos & Features
Magic Dancer Costume Portraits
Swimwear Behind the Scenes Photos
Finalists Welcomed at Baha Mar
I Want To Be A Magic Dancer Because...
Auditions Now Headed for Bahamas
Three Words to Describe Me...
Magic Fans Should Vote For Me Because...
Audition Finalists Portraits
Dancer Auditions Will Be Extra Special This Year
Video