Sparks performs for area senior citizens

The Sparks dance group had its final show last night at the University Square Apartments, a housing area for senior citizens. But Sparks did more than entertain last night. The five year old dance group raises funds for local charities as well as performing for audiences. And last night's show was no different than any other. It was a complete success filled with extremely talented dancers. "In the fall we have two performances for Penn students where we raised $500 for Dickson House and another $500 for Ronald McDonald House," Engineering senior Rachel Harrison said. "Then during the spring we take our show and travel to places like Ralston House and the Philadelphia Geriatric Center." These dancers brought more than just their moves to the University Square Apartments last night. The small group pleased a large group of senior citizens with their big smiles, fantastic dancing and creative choreography. The show combined pop dance moves to artists such as Whitney Houston and Janet Jackson and also incorporated ballet. One of the favorite numbers was a tap version of Aretha Franklin's big hit "Respect." "We love dancing and try to spread the joy we feel around," College senior Tessie Topol said. "When we're smiling, they smile also." This audience was smiling ear to ear as the dancers performed to cheers and claps. "It was excellent, I enjoyed this very much, they are really superb," resident Ruth Goodson said. "I hope to see them here again and again." Sparks members said they get more out of this group than just dance training. They said they form lasting relationships and feel good about donating money to charity. "I love this group because we were all attracted here because of the charity aspect and we are all giving people who have a lot of fun together," College senior Sherri Cooper said. "We really like doing what we do with each other and getting a rewarding response from the audience."