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Orlando Magic Dancers Excited for New Season to Begin

Josh Cohen
Digital News Manager

By Josh Cohen
July 28, 2016

ORLANDO -- The last 24 hours or so were tense and anxious times for the Orlando Magic Dancer finalists. But for the 20 who heard their names called on Thursday night at Amway Center, all that nervousness and suspense turned quickly into a feeling of jubilation.

It was also in that moment, when event hosts DMC and Cori announced the squad, that each dancer realized the fruits of their labor. All their hard work in the studio training for this opportunity finally paid off.

Choosing just 20 of the 30 finalists proved to be the usual challenge for the judges. There was no shortage of talent and deliberations from the judges required thorough evaluation.

The last two weeks have been action-packed. Finalists took part in pre-audition classes, showed off their skills during first round auditions, participated in physical fitness sessions and interviewed with judges and former Magic Dancers. The dancers who survived those hurdles finished the audition process by performing a pair of routines during finals in front of family and friends.

Now that the selections have been made, each of the 2016-17 Magic Dancers can look ahead to a year filled with unforgettable experiences and an important role in the Central Florida community.

For 14 women, a dream will be relived.

“It just keeps getting better and better,” said Victoria Q., who rejoins the team for her third season. “It’s one of those feelings that no matter how many times you try out and no matter how many years you’ve been on the team, it’s just so special and the nerves never go away."

“I’m looking forward to this team, coming together and bonding and just making us look so much more cohesive on the court,” she added.

For the other six, they are about to find out why former Magic Dancers often say their time on the team was one of the best experiences of their lives.

“I feel like I’m still in a dream,” said Olivia, who made the team for the first time. “It’s just the most incredible feeling. I’m looking forward to the sisterhood and having 19 new best friends and sisters.”

Aside from performing in front of thousands of fans during games, the Magic Dancers play an essential role at many other team and community events.

“Being around this organization is so positive,” said Erika, another first year Magic Dancer. “I can’t wait to get started.”

PORTRAITS: Costume | Performance | Dress | Intros

INTERVIEWS: Lily | Kori | Desiree | Erika