HUNDREDS of dancers jived to the beat recently at Mount Gambier’s inaugural Take The Stage dance competition.
Developed as a community-based side project by young business women Paris Ackland, Kim Cella and Keana Soper, the competition aims to create a family, friendly and fun environment while providing opportunity for learning and friendships.
The debut event was held late last month at Wehl Street Theatre.
Ms Ackland said the competition was a success and thanked the community for its support.
“It was fantastic to see many South East dance studios’ support,” Ms Ackland said.
“We had more entries in our first year than we thought and are now looking at expanding the event based on this years’ success.”
The competition was adjudicated by Newcastle-based expert Karen Anne-Thomas who has 45 years of industry experience.
Ms Anne-Thomas has worked with many professional dance companies including Sydney City Ballet School, Tasdance and the West End Dance Co.
The seasoned performer had never visited the Limestone Coast before and was eager to see what was on offer.
“The talent here was quite impressive for a regional city a reasonable distance away from a state capital,” she said.
“I was certainly not prepared to see a large amount of male participants gracing the stage.
“It is great to see a regional community embrace many dance genres and excel at them.”
Adele Telford and Lily Taylor were announced as the six and under highest point scorers, followed by Paige Telford as the highest through the eight and under division and Holly Allison in 10 and under.
Beau Anderson showed skill achieving the highest score during the 12 and under division as well as taking home the choreography award.
Halle Anderson and Santi Barker were the highest scorers in 14 and under and 16 and under divisions respectively.
Jacinta Cooper proved a threat to all, awarded with open division honours.
Halle Anderson’s dance moves sparked interest from the adjudicator, taking home the most potential award.
Expected to rise through the ranks, dancer Isabella Lawrie claimed the rising star award.
Bree Robinson stood out from the crowd as the most promising classical dancer.
Unique popping and locking duo Anton Gabutina and Espior Alpha were awarded with the hip hop DNA award.
