Two local dance academies twirled, shimmied and jived at The Epstein Theatre in Liverpool, thanks to support from the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company.
Eight performers aged 11-19 from Ny Hellanee Dance Troupe and 21 dancers aged 14-18 from Gena’s Dance Academy travelled across for The Ultimate Dance Showcase UK, held on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd June. Both performed a range of contemporary, jazz and lyrical routines in both solo and group categories, in front of an audience of industry professionals, expert judges and spectators.
All dancers from Ny Hellanee Dance Troupe received ‘Ultimate Silver’ and high scores, with 15-year-old Mary Teare achieving their best score in her solo performance, with 269/300.
Gena’s Dance Academy won the ‘Studio of Excellence Award’ and came away with three firsts and one second in the group categories and a mix of ‘Silvers’, ‘High Silvers’ and ‘Golds’ in the senior and teen contemporary competitive solos.
Ultimate Dance Showcase UK is a world-class dance competition which takes place across the UK, offering dancers of all ages and abilities from all over the world an opportunity to showcase dancing talent.
The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company was pleased to offer its support to both dance schools as they travelled to and from the island to compete.
Beth Brown, Ny Hellanee Dance Troupe founder, said: ‘Attending competitions in the UK plays a key part in helping our young dancers to build confidence, develop their technique and experience a wider range of talent, but travelling expenses can really add up so we’re incredibly grateful to the Steam Packet Company for its support.
‘Everyone performed so well and I’m proud of each of them, especially considering this is our first time at the event. There’s certainly lots we can take away for next time.’
Gena Walker, Owner of Gena’s Dance Academy, said: ‘Our main objective of competing in events like this is to give our dancers the best opportunities to nurture their talent and to also show others what the Isle of Man has got! We’re very sheltered in terms of dance on the island with only one local dance competition every year, so it’s vital for those who wish to further their career to experience this level of competition.
‘Everyone did amazingly well and were a real credit to Gena’s Dance Academy, they should all be very proud!’
Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Chief Executive Mark Woodward added: ‘It sounds like both dance academies performed exceptionally well in Liverpool. It’s a pleasure to support young performers as they grow and develop and we hope everyone enjoyed their time at the Ultimate Dance Showcase UK.’
Gena's Dance Academy won the 'Studio of Excellence Award' at the UK dance competition
Ny Hellanee Dance Troupe on their way to The Ultimate Dance Showcase UK in Liverpool
