At first, sixth-grader Justin Cruzada’s response to the question of why he joined an after-school performing arts program seems both upbeat and somewhat indifferent.

“Because I like it and I have nothing else to do.”

But upon further questioning, the laid-back youngster revealed that his parents do not make him take part in the program. He chooses to return each year. Later he electrified an audience with a rap performance of the song Lose Yourself.

Cruzada’s performance came as part of the Cabbagetown Youth Centre’s Performing Arts End of Year Showcase yesterday. The event, which doubled as a fundraiser, featured songs, dance, drama and a barbeque lunch.

“I feel it went really well. It was a smooth show,” Monique Caine, the centre’s performing arts program co-ordinator said. “The kids performed really well, the parents enjoyed it. It was good.”

The CYC, a neighbourhood institution situated near Parliament and Wellesley, hosts anywhere between 25-30 kids in their after-school program, which runs between September and June. Students, who range from six to 14 in age, may enroll in a variety of dance classes, as well as drama and vocal programs. Saturday?s event provided a chance for them to show off what they’ve learned throughout the year.

“I like performing as a whole, and I like projecting my voice and speaking out,” Ivana Devendrau, a 14-year old drama student, said of the showcase experience. “I just hope [the audience] enjoys it.”

The afternoon event featured hip-hop choreography, skits, monologues, vocal performances and a final ensemble dance number that drew roars of applause.

Kristina Tchalova, the after-school drama teacher, noted the social and developmental advantages students receive alongside performing arts training.

“I think it requires them to develop social skills because it forces them to step out of their shells,” Tchalova said. “I’ve seen some kids who’ve really grown in the past year and are now willing to take some risks and are really confident.”

As the showcase wound down, parents offered the students hugs, congratulations and the encouragement to pursue their dreams.

“They say, ‘You did a good job,’” Justin said of the responses he’s received over three years of performing in the showcase. “They’re like, ‘You might have a career in it, singing or dancing.’”