With glitter, costumes, and creativity in full swing, the talented team at Bodies in Motion dance school is hard at work preparing their highly anticipated floats for this year’s Port Douglas Carnivale Street Parade.

The dance school, known for its vibrant and high-energy performances, is embracing the theme ‘Tropical Treasures’ for 2025, and their float promises to be a showstopper. 

Think underwater wonders, pirate treasure chests, shimmering sea creatures, and mermaids brought to life through dance and design.

Saskia Turner, Principal and oOwner of Bodies in Motion, said that this year they’re really leaning into that magical, underwater vibe.

“We’ve got everything from jellyfish to treasure maps, and the kids are loving it. It’s such a fun, colourful theme,” Saskia said.

Around a 100 dance students will take center stage on the night, dancing their way through the parade with signature choreography, coordinated costumes, and contagious energy. 

But bringing the float to life is a collective effort. Saskia said it's a whole-community collaboration.

“Our parents are amazing. They help design, decorate, paint, and sew. The kids are hands-on too, helping with everything from prop painting to rehearsals. It’s a huge team effort.”

For many of the dancers, Carnivale is a highlight of their year. 

While Bodies in Motion is typically seen on stage in competitions or concerts, the parade gives students a different kind of experience: performing in the open, in the heart of the community.

“It’s exciting for them,” Saskia added. “They’re used to dancing on stage, but dancing down the street, with the crowd cheering and music blasting, it’s something really special.”