Students from McConnell Twins Dance Studio traveled to Birmingham Feb. 18 and 19 to be a part of the recent Co. Dance Birmingham Convention.

The girls, ranging from ninth through 12th grades, received instruction from professional dancers of the popular television show “So You Think You Can Dance?” and interacted with nearly a thousand dancers from across the state.

“They do tap, jazz, ballet, lyrical, contemporary and hip-hop — the girls just loved (the) hip hop,” studio owner and instructor Lisa Baker said. “They work technique as well as choreography … it’s a great experience for the girls to have classes by professional dancers.”

Dancer and McConnell newcomer Angelene Kendall also participated in one of the convention’s competitions, receiving high marks and a plaque for her achievements. For Kendall, this was her first time competing.

“I was really excited,” Kendall said. “When I started, it wasn’t about if I won or not, it was just fun to be on stage. When I did place high (94 points out of 100), it was a bonus placed on top of the already natural high.”

Baker said the experience was an eye opener.

“It gives them some insight into the dance world other than Selma,” Baker said. “So many times we get involved in just Selma, but there’s a whole world out there. It pushes them to work a little harder when they see others who are that involved in dance.”

The dance company also awarded Baker with a teacher’s certificate for completing its teacher program.