Pueblo's R&R Dancers Make Professional Show Debut in Phoenix with Derek Piquette’s TEMPUS

Phoenix, AZ – October 2025

In an inspiring leap from local studio to a professional stage, six young dancers from R&R Dance Studio in Pueblo, Colorado are making their professional debut in the live production of TEMPUS, choreographed and directed by acclaimed artist Derek Piquette. The performance will be held in Phoenix, Arizona, as the headlining event of the prestigious Accelerate Acro Convention.

For these six dancers, the journey began in January 2025 when they registered to attend the convention. Alongside classes and workshops, the event also offered a unique opportunity: a chance to audition for TEMPUS, a professional acrobatic dance production known for blending powerful visuals, athleticism, and emotional storytelling.

The audition process was no small feat. The first round in February required dancers to submit a self-tape showcasing their strengths across various acrobatic and dance styles. All six dancers received call-backs — an encouraging sign for the months ahead.

Round two pushed them further. Dancers were tasked with learning complex choreography from video tutorials — a challenge that demanded not only technical skill but personal discipline. With limited access to studio space time, each dancer dedicated time outside of their regular training to learn, rehearse, and master the piece independently. The effort culminated in their first-ever live Zoom audition — a modern twist on traditional dance casting.

Their perseverance paid off. Once again, all six dancers advanced to the final round in September, where they performed live over Zoom for a panel of judges to showcase their growth, adaptability, and passion.

On September 10th, the dancers received the life-changing news: they had all officially been cast in TEMPUS. It marks the first professional show for each of the R&R dancers — a testament to their hard work, talent, and unshakable determination.

The show itself is produced by none other than Derek Piquette, a celebrated dancer, director, choreographer, and teacher. Piquette rose to prominence as a finalist on So You Think You Can Dance Season 12 and toured nationally with the show. He later took on the role of “The Trickster” in Cirque du Soleil’s KOOZA, and was a finalist on NBC’s World of Dance Season 3. Now an established creative force, Piquette is the visionary behind both Her and TEMPUS — professional productions that combine high-level artistry with a focus on youth empowerment.

According to the convention’s official description, TEMPUS is “an electrifying showcase that blends emerging talent with industry icons, creating an unforgettable celebration of AcroDance artistry.” For these Pueblo dancers, it’s not only a dream come true — it’s a launchpad for what’s sure to be a bright future in the performing arts.

In addition to performing in TEMPUS, the dancers will be participating in weekend-long convention classes, learning from top acrobatic and dance professionals from across the country.

This milestone is more than a performance — it's a story of commitment, growth, and courage. We couldn’t be prouder of these six young artists who dared to dream big, worked even harder, and are now stepping into the spotlight of their first professional stage.

Bravo to Macie Pinelle, Aubrey Daniels, Parker McKinley, Mila Knowlton, Sloan Sanchez, and Blayke Klipfel!