The Black Pearls to Perform with Rascal Flatts

PEORIA, IL - (September 18, 2008) The Peoria Pirates Dance Team, the Black Pearls, are performing Friday, September 19, at the Peoria Civic Center. This performance, however, will not be on a field, and it will not be in support of a football team! The Black Pearls have been invited to perform on stage with Rascal Flatts during their appearance in Peoria. The Black Pearls, directed by former NBA and AFL dancer Nicole Steward, are ecstatic about the opportunity! "I still cannot believe its true, and I may not until we are actually on stage!" said Steward. Nicole's professional dance experience includes the Luvabulls (Chicago Bulls) and Adrenaline Rush Dancers (Chicago Rush). In addition she also founded and directed the dance team for the Schaumburg Flyers, a minor league baseball team in the Chicagoland area. Nicole says that this experience, however, will be one that will definitely be added to her resume.

The Peoria Pirates are holding auditions to be members of the Black Pearls for the 2009 season Saturday, October 11, 2008 at Eastside Centre, located at 1 Eastside Dr., East Peoria. Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. with tryouts beginning immediately after. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older as of April 1, 2009. Candidates will be judged based on dance potential, performance, appearance and personality. Applicants do not need their own choreography. All materials will be taught at the audition. Form-fitting, two-piece attire should be worn including sports bra or cropped top and shorts, no pants. Performance hair and makeup should also be worn. Participants will be required to sign a waiver prior to taking part in any activities.

An application must be submitted along with a non-refundable $25 registration fee. For application and registration information, visit www.peoriapiratesaf2.com or email dance@peoriapiratesaf2.com.