Celebrating a Milestone: Vibe Dance Academy’s First Annual Recital

Posted on June 3, 2026 by dabourphoto

There is a unique kind of energy that surrounds a studio’s very first dance recital—a blend of nerves, adrenaline, and pure joy that you can feel the moment you walk into the theater. It was an honor to document that debut for the dancers and staff at Vibe Dance Academy this year.

From the quiet focus of our studio portrait sessions to the electrifying atmosphere of their live performances, it has been a pleasure to partner with this new studio as they take their first steps in the local dance community.

Capturing the Vibe

Documenting a debut recital is about more than just getting the shot; it’s about capturing the story of the studio’s arrival. I had the pleasure of creating professional dance recital portraits for the students, ensuring every dancer felt confident and prepared for their moment in the spotlight.

A group of young dancers in vibrant costumes performing an energetic routine on stage during the inaugural Vibe Dance Academy recital in 2026. — Photo from the 2026 Vibe Dance Recital on May 30, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Once the curtain went up, the energy was infectious. My goal behind the lens—both for the action photography and the video production—was to preserve the technique, the artistry, and the sheer enthusiasm that the dancers brought to every routine. Seeing the students perform with such poise, especially in their first showcase, was a testament to the hard work they have put in throughout the season.

A Bright Future Ahead

Congratulations to the entire team at Vibe Dance Academy on a spectacular first recital! You have set a high bar, and it is clear that this is just the beginning of a wonderful journey for your studio.

I am already looking forward to seeing what’s next for this talented team. If you are looking for a studio that brings passion and energy to every movement, I highly recommend checking them out at vibedancenj.com.

ARC Performing Arts Brings Frozen Kids to Life

Posted on June 1, 2026 by dabourphoto

There’s a special kind of magic that happens when young performers step onto a stage — that moment when nerves turn into confidence, when imagination becomes storytelling, and when a familiar tale feels brand new again. ARC Performing Arts’ recent production of Frozen Kids captured that magic beautifully.

From the opening scene to the final bow, this cast poured their hearts into the world of Arendelle. Their energy, teamwork, and commitment to character made every moment feel vibrant and full of life. Photographing this production was a joy — not just because of the costumes and staging, but because of the emotion these performers brought to every beat of the story.

A Cast That Shined in Every Scene

Whether it was the warmth of sisterhood, the humor woven throughout the show, or the dramatic moments that held the audience still, these young actors delivered performances far beyond their years. Their expressions, movement, and connection to one another made for some truly memorable images.

Cast members in costumes from the ARC Performing Arts production of Disney’s Frozen KIDS performing on stage, including Elsa in a blue gown, Anna in her signature dress, and Olaf

A group of young performers in costumes from the ARC Performing Arts production of Disney’s Frozen KIDS, including a student dressed as Olaf with his arms raised, performing on stage.

Storytelling Through Movement and Music

One of the things I love most about photographing youth theater is capturing the moments that happen between the lines — the gestures, the reactions, the shared glances that reveal the heart of the story. This production was full of them.

From lively group numbers to emotional turning points, the cast brought a wonderful blend of enthusiasm and focus to the stage. Their dedication shows in every frame.

A dynamic dance ensemble scene from the ARC Performing Arts production of Frozen KIDS featuring Anna and Kristoff performing with the cast on stage.

Elsa and Anna standing center stage in their signature costumes during the ARC Performing Arts production of Frozen Kids.

Behind the Scenes of a Magical Production

ARC Performing Arts continues to create an environment where young performers feel supported, challenged, and inspired. It’s clear in the way they take risks, collaborate, and celebrate each other’s successes. As a photographer, it’s a privilege to witness that growth and capture the moments families will treasure for years.

Young performers in Arendelle royal costumes kneeling on stage during the ARC Performing Arts production of Frozen KIDS. — ARC Performing Arts presents ‘Frozen Kids’ pn May 28, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

A young performer in a blue gown and tiara portraying Elsa during the ARC Performing Arts production of Frozen KIDS. — ARC Performing Arts presents ‘Frozen Kids’ pn May 28, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

View the Full Gallery

Cast members already have this link and the special code to download the digital images. Family members can also purchase prints and gifts from Frozen Kids here: https://proofs.dabourphoto.com/gallery/ARC-FrozenKids

Prints, packages, and digital downloads are available.

Looking Ahead

Thank you to ARC Performing Arts for inviting me to capture another wonderful production. I’m already excited to see what stories they bring to the stage next — and to continue documenting the creativity, courage, and joy these young performers bring to every rehearsal and performance.

Curtains Up! 2026 Freddy Awards Official Photos Are Now Available

Posted on May 23, 2026 by dabourphoto

The energy, the raw talent, the tears of joy, and the jaw-dropping choreography—the 2026 Freddy Awards completely blew us away this year! As the official photographer capturing the magic on stage, I am absolutely thrilled to announce that the complete, high-resolution photo gallery is **officially live and open for viewing and purchasing**.

Whether you were a nominee under the bright lights, part of an ensemble that brought the house down, a proud director, or a family member cheering from the audience, these images were captured to help you preserve these memories forever.

🎨 **View the Official Gallery Here:** https://www.dabourphotography.com/event/Freddy-Awards-2026
🌐 **Explore More Theater Work:** Visit our main theatrical portfolio at https://dabourphoto.com/theatre

The Freddy Awards celebrate the absolute best in high school musical theatre, and this year’s production values reached spectacular new heights. From gravity-defying athletic leaps to dramatic, emotionally charged vocal performances, every single school brought unparalleled dedication to the stage.

Through the lens, my goal is always to freeze those split-second moments—the perfect mid-air split, the subtle interactions between lead characters, and the explosive color of the ensemble numbers.

Why Purchase Your Professional Action Prints & Digitals?

Unmatched Quality: Moving stages, dramatic theatrical lighting, and fast action are notoriously hard to capture. These images are shot on professional-grade gear specifically optimized for low-light, high-speed stage performances.

Keep the Memory Alive: High school theatre builds lifelong bonds. Having high-quality digital downloads or physical prints ensures you can look back on your performance decades from now with pride.

Perfect for Portfolios: If you are planning to pursue musical theatre, acting, or technical stage production in college or professionally, these images serve as flawless portfolio additions.

How to Find, View, and Purchase Your Photos

Navigating a massive event gallery can feel overwhelming, so we’ve streamlined the process to make finding your specific school or performance a breeze:

1. Click the Gallery Link: Go directly to the hosted platform at (https://www.dabourphotography.com/event/Freddy-Awards-2026).

2. Browse by Category or School: Images are organized chronologically and by section to help you jump right to your school’s performance, the award presentations, or the red carpet.

3. Select Your Favorites: You can select digital downloads for instant social media sharing or order professional-grade physical prints, canvases, and keepsakes delivered straight to your door.

*Note: For general inquiries about our performance schedules or booking for upcoming local theatre productions, head to our main site at https://dabourphoto.com/theatre.

Share Your Success!

When you post your purchased photos on Instagram or Facebook, don’t forget to tag us @davedabour_photography or @DabourPhotography and use the hashtag #FreddyAwards2026 so we can celebrate your talent all over again!

Congratulations to all the schools, directors, cast, and crew members who made this year an unforgettable milestone in local theatre history.

Tech Week Day 3: Where the Magic Happens—Dress Rehearsal & TV Prep

Posted on May 20, 2026 by dabourphoto

If you ask anyone involved in the Freddy Awards which day is the most pivotal, you might hear “Thursday.” But if you ask me the Freddy Awards photographer, the answer is always Wednesday.

Wednesday is where the magic truly happens. It is the bridge between the raw rehearsals of early tech week and the high-octane live broadcast of the awards ceremony. It is the day the State Theatre transforms into a full-scale television studio, and for me, it is the most rewarding day of the year to be behind the lens.

The Professional Shift: TV Prep

Walking into the theater on Wednesday evening feels different. The WFMZ-TV crew is all set up, their cameras positioned, and the production team is in “watching and learning” mode. They are mapping out every camera angle and every lighting cue, following a nearly identical tech rehearsal of the entire three-hour show. Watching the synergy between the theatrical performers and the television professionals is a masterclass in production.

The Visual Explosion: Full Costumes

This is the moment everyone has been waiting for. Wednesday is the first time all the actors, soloists, and ensembles are in full costume performing together on the State Theatre stage.

The transition from rehearsal hoodies and sneakers to vibrant, theatrical costumes is an explosion of color and character. It changes the way the students carry themselves—they aren’t just rehearsing anymore; they are the characters.

Why It’s My Favorite Day

As a photographer, Wednesday is my “gold mine” day. Because it is a dress rehearsal and not a live broadcast with a seated audience, I have the flexibility to capture the best possible action shots without the constraints of a live crowd or the strict sightlines of the actual ceremony. I get to document the sweat, the smiles, the intricate details of the costumes, and the peak energy of the routines. This is where I capture the “hero shots” that end up being favorites for years to come.

Dress rehearsal photo of the 2025 Freddy Awards. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

The countdown to the red carpet is almost over! If you’re a cast member or a parent, make sure you have the link ready to go. You can view all the magic from this week and our entire history of the Freddy Awards right here:

Dabour Photography Freddy Awards Gallery

Keep checking back—as soon as the magic from today is processed, it will be landing in the 2026 gallery!

Senior Dance Portraits with Mia — A Full‑Circle Moment

Posted on May 19, 2026 by dabourphoto

There’s something uniquely special about photographing a dancer you’ve worked with for years. Mia has been in front of my camera many times — for artistic portraits, senior photos, and now her final dance portrait session before she heads off to college. Each time, she brings the same qualities that make her such a joy to photograph: talent, focus, and a natural ease that turns every pose into art.

This year marks a big milestone for her. Mia is a high school senior, and in just a few months she’ll be attending Montclair, where she’ll study both dance and fashion — a combination that fits her perfectly. Watching her step confidently into this next chapter has been inspiring, even if I selfishly wish I had just a little more time to create with her.

Earlier in the year, during one of our artistic sessions, I asked Mia and her mom if she still had her very first dance costume. Her face lit up as she said yes. I told her, “You have to bring it to our next session.” And she did.

Seeing her holding that tiny costume — the one that started it all — was a full‑circle moment. It was a reminder of how far she’s come, how much she’s grown, and how dance has shaped her into the artist she is today. Photographing her with it felt like capturing a bridge between the beginning of her journey and the incredible future waiting for her.

I’m so proud of Mia and everything she’s accomplished. While I’m excited to see where her talent takes her next, part of me wishes I had a few more years to create more incredible dance portrait art with her. But that’s the beauty of these sessions — they freeze time, even as life keeps moving forward.

Here’s to Mia — to her artistry, her dedication, and the next chapter she’s about to write.

Some of my favorite images from the session:

A senior high school dancer named Mia performing an inverted headstand pose on a white studio floor; she is wearing a dark blue athletic outfit and white sneakers with her legs extended in a wide, symmetrical split. — Dance portraits for ShowBiz Kidz Studio Wednesday April 22, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

A senior high school dancer named Mia in a blue contemporary dance outfit performing a floor pose with one hand on the ground and her other arm extended gracefully; she is looking directly at the camera with a focused expression. — Dance portraits for ShowBiz Kidz Studio Wednesday April 22, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Capturing the Magic: Hunterdon Hills Ballet Presents Sleeping Beauty

Posted on May 15, 2026 by dabourphoto

I have had the pleasure of photographing and recording video for Hunterdon Hills Ballet for several years now, and every season, I am struck by the same thing: the talent on that stage is absolutely first-class.

While the spring season usually brings a variety of different performances, this year the school “changed it up” by staged the timeless classic, Sleeping Beauty. It was a magnificent production, filled with vibrant costumes, intricate choreography, and the high-level artistry I’ve come to expect from these dedicated dancers.

Below are some of my favorite highlights from the recent production:

Three ballet dancers on stage during a performance of Sleeping Beauty; two dancers in the background hold a large, circular floral arch over a lead dancer in a light blue and grey costume performing a graceful pose. — The colorful “Fairies” ensemble from Hunterdon Hills Ballet’s 2026 production of Sleeping Beauty.

A male and female ballet dancer performing a dramatic lift on stage during Sleeping Beauty; the female dancer is in a white and pink feathered tutu being supported in a graceful pose by her partner, while other dancers in blue tutus watch from the background. — The colorful “Fairies” ensemble from Hunterdon Hills Ballet’s 2026 production of Sleeping Beauty.

Looking Ahead: Auditions and The Nutcracker

Partnering with Hunterdon Hills Ballet is always a highlight of my year, and I’m already looking forward to our future collaborations. Whether it’s capturing the grandeur of a full production or working one-on-one with students, I am constantly inspired by their grace.

With fall just around the corner, The Nutcracker will be here before we know it! Now is the perfect time for dancers to update their portfolios. If you are in need of:

Professional Dance Audition Photos
Updated Headshots
Creative Dance Portrait Sessions

I would love to work with you to capture your best light. Feel free to reach out to book your session!

Behind the Scenes: The Soloist Rehearsals Begin!

Posted on May 13, 2026 by dabourphoto

On Monday evening, the theater was buzzing with a special kind of electricity. This wasn’t just any rehearsal—it was the first time this year’s nominated soloists stepped onto the stage to work with the live band.

The atmosphere was a mix of intense focus and pure talent. Each performer, both male and female nominees, had just 60 seconds to make their mark. Watching them distill their character and vocal power into a one-minute solo is always a highlight of the season.

These “mini-performances” are high stakes and high energy, and capturing those raw moments of preparation—before the costumes and the stage lights take over—is truly special.

I’ve selected a few of my favorite shots from the evening below to give you a glimpse of the hard work happening behind the curtain.

Want to see more? To view and purchase more Freddy Award images from this year and past years, please visit: Dabour Photography – Freddy Awards 2026

A female nominated soloist for the 2026 Freddy Awards performing her musical theater solo rehearsal with a microphone on stage. — First rehearsal for the solos in the 2026 Freddy Awards on May 11, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Patrick from Southern Lehigh, a 2026 Freddy Awards nominated soloist, singing during his first rehearsal with the band in the theater. — First rehearsal for the solos in the 2026 Freddy Awards on May 11, 2026. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Sometimes It’s Good To Be Backed Up

Posted on March 31, 2026 by dabourphoto

Today is World Backup Day, which feels like the perfect reminder for anyone who works with photos and video — especially full‑time professional photographers like me — that our work only truly exists when it’s protected.

When you’re trusted to capture once‑in‑a‑lifetime moments, school productions, ambassador sessions, or full theater runs, “hoping your hard drive holds up” isn’t a strategy. Files are fragile. Drives fail. Cards corrupt. Life happens.

That’s why professional photographers build backup systems that start the moment the shutter clicks. Multiple memory cards. Redundant drives. Cloud copies. Off‑site storage. It’s not glamorous, but it’s the difference between delivering and disappointing.

For the Banks family portrait I created for SPAC’s Mary Poppins Jr. production, the final image was printed, displayed, and woven into the show’s world. That’s not something you leave to chance. Backups ensure that the hours of research, styling, shooting, and editing are protected — and that the work can live on long after the curtain closes.

So on World Backup Day, consider this your friendly nudge:
If your memories matter, back them up. If your work matters, back it up twice.

Celebrating World Theatre Day with a Look Back at the Freddy Awards Gallery

Posted on March 27, 2026 by dabourphoto

Happy World Theatre Day!

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that theatre isn’t just a performance — it’s a community, a heartbeat, and a place where young artists discover who they are. I’ve had the honor of photographing the Freddy Awards since 2013, and every season reminds me just how much talent, passion, and joy lives in our local high school theatre programs.

Each year, several of my Freddy Awards images were featured in the State Theatre Center for the Arts Gallery in Easton, PA. Seeing those moments — the emotion, the storytelling, the pure electricity of live theatre — displayed on the walls of such a historic venue was incredibly meaningful. It’s one thing to capture a performance; it’s another to see those images become part of the theater’s visual history.

This year’s gallery installation is already up, and if you’re curious which images made the cut, you can check them out any show night at the State Theatre. I’ll also be sharing some of them here on the blog in the coming weeks.

To celebrate World Theatre Day, I’m offering a special 10% off coupon for any previous Freddy Awards gallery items.
Use coupon code FREDDY10 at checkout — valid now through Sunday, March 31, 2026.

You can browse the full collection here:
https://www.dabourphotography.com/Freddy-Awards

Whether you’re a performer, a parent, a theatre fan, or someone who just loves the magic of the stage, thank you for supporting the arts and the incredible students who bring these stories to life.

Show Photography: Lopatcong Elementary School’s Production of Finding Nemo Kids

Posted on March 20, 2026 by dabourphoto

There’s something special about watching young performers bring a story to life — especially one as colorful, heartfelt, and joy‑filled as Finding Nemo Kids. This week, Lopatcong Elementary School dove into the world of Pixar’s beloved underwater adventure, filling the middle school stage with bright characters, big energy, and a whole lot of heart. Their production runs through tomorrow, and it’s absolutely worth celebrating.

I had the pleasure of photographing this show from start to finish, capturing the excitement, the storytelling, and the incredible work these students and staff poured into every moment. From the vibrant costumes to the expressive performances, this cast made the ocean feel alive. And for this production, I also had the opportunity to film the show — giving families a way to relive the magic long after the curtain closes.

View the Show Photos

Digital images from the performance are now available for viewing and purchase here:
https://proofs.dabourphoto.com/FindingNemoKids

Purchase the Show Video

A full video of the production is also available:
https://bit.ly/LopatcongNemo

A School Full of Heart and Talent

Lopatcong Elementary has a long tradition of creating meaningful, memorable productions, and this year’s Finding Nemo Kids is no exception. The students brought so much enthusiasm to their roles — from Nemo’s determination to Dory’s optimism to the entire ensemble of sea creatures who filled the stage with movement and color.

Behind the scenes, the staff and volunteers worked tirelessly to make this show shine. Their dedication is evident in every detail, and it’s always a privilege to help preserve their hard work through photography and video.

Why I Love Photographing School Theater

There’s a unique kind of magic in school productions — the mix of nerves, excitement, teamwork, and pure joy. These performances become core memories for the students, their families, and the community. Being able to capture those moments is something I never take for granted.

Closing Thoughts

Congratulations to the entire cast, crew, and creative team at Lopatcong Elementary School. Your production of Finding Nemo Kids is full of charm, heart, and creativity. Thank you for inviting me to be part of your journey both behind the camera and behind the lens.

I hope these images and the show video help you relive the laughter, the music, and the magic of your time under the sea.

Some of my favorite images from the show:

Dabour Photography

Let us capture the moments so you can enjoy them…

Tag Archives: dabour photography

Celebrating a Milestone: Vibe Dance Academy’s First Annual Recital

Like this:

ARC Performing Arts Brings Frozen Kids to Life

A Cast That Shined in Every Scene

Storytelling Through Movement and Music

Behind the Scenes of a Magical Production

View the Full Gallery

Looking Ahead

Like this:

Curtains Up! 2026 Freddy Awards Official Photos Are Now Available

Why Purchase Your Professional Action Prints & Digitals?

How to Find, View, and Purchase Your Photos

Share Your Success!

Like this:

Tech Week Day 3: Where the Magic Happens—Dress Rehearsal & TV Prep

The Professional Shift: TV Prep

The Visual Explosion: Full Costumes

Why It’s My Favorite Day

Like this:

Senior Dance Portraits with Mia — A Full‑Circle Moment

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Capturing the Magic: Hunterdon Hills Ballet Presents Sleeping Beauty

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Behind the Scenes: The Soloist Rehearsals Begin!

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Sometimes It’s Good To Be Backed Up

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Celebrating World Theatre Day with a Look Back at the Freddy Awards Gallery

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Show Photography: Lopatcong Elementary School’s Production of Finding Nemo Kids

View the Show Photos

Purchase the Show Video

A School Full of Heart and Talent

Why I Love Photographing School Theater

Closing Thoughts

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A Cast That Shined in Every Scene

Storytelling Through Movement and Music

Behind the Scenes of a Magical Production

View the Full Gallery

Looking Ahead

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Like this:

Why Purchase Your Professional Action Prints & Digitals?

How to Find, View, and Purchase Your Photos

Share Your Success!

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The Professional Shift: TV Prep

The Visual Explosion: Full Costumes

Why It’s My Favorite Day

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View the Show Photos

Purchase the Show Video

A School Full of Heart and Talent

Why I Love Photographing School Theater

Closing Thoughts

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