Booties were shaking and the Vancouver Olympic Centre was quaking as 250 people auditioned to be a part of the Paralympic Winter Games opening and closing ceremonies yesterday.
People of all ages, abilities and backgrounds took part in the auditions at Hillcrest Park - home to curling during the Games - and shot for the chance of being one of 4,000 performers during the Games.
"We're out here to support Paralympics especially, because they are literally heroes, and we also want to be part of the experience with the Olympics," said Maya Senn.
The candidates practiced a choreographed routine in one big group before breaking into smaller groups and showing Patrick Roberge Productions - the team responsible for both ceremonies - what they're made of.
The most important thing on this day was not dancing ability, but enthusiasm.
"It didn't matter if you could move or not as long as you were smiling and having a good time, that's what we were looking for," said head choreographer Jocelyn Peden.
Patrick Roberge said just about everyone filtering through brought the right qualities.
"When it hit them and they realized they are part of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity the adrenalin kicks right in," he said. "That's when it really starts to be a blast."
Yesterday was the last invite-only audition for the Paralympic ceremonies.
Performers will be chosen by mid-November.
