Young dancers from Central and across the South Island came together last weekend for a four-day dance competition at the Lake Wānaka Centre. 

The inaugural ‘Tititea Performing Arts Competition’ included more than 110 dancers and 550 items, in what organisers described as “a celebration of dance”.

The competition was organised by the Tititea Performing Arts Trust (TPAT), formed recently by four local women; Maxine Frazer, Leigh Cohen, Maria Hearle and Gillian White. 

TPAT wanted to organise an annual event to foster a welcoming, supportive and enjoyable culture for performers from all backgrounds, geographical areas and abilities. 

Founding trustee Maxine Frazer said the event set out to promote wellbeing and learning for young dancers. 

“Competitors were given detailed feedback, support, guidance and even impromptu mini workshops from our highly experienced adjudicator. This included technical guidance on dancing safely, advice on looking after your body, tips to reduce pre-performance nerves and encouragement to focus on finding joy in dance.

“We were delighted to see dancers from across the South Island supporting and encouraging each other right throughout the competition.”

Achievements were recognised across all age groups and categories, with the youngest dancer five years old.

Young ballet performers wait backstage. PHOTO: Supplied 

Dancers from Central were Lucy Anderson (Alexandra), Madelyn McCallum (Clyde), Riley Cochrane (Tarras), Sophie Hunter (Cromwell), Sophie O’Dwyer (Bannockburn) and Violet Lindsay (Cromwell). 

Third place in the little champions category was Clyde’s Madelyn McCallum (pictured in the centre). PHOTO: Supplied

Alexandra’s Lucy Anderson on stage. PHOTO: Supplied

Categories included ballet, contemporary, hip hop, jazz and self choreography. There were solo performances, along with duos and groups dancing together. 

Professional adjudicator Sarah Knox said that the standard of dancing had been high, and judging the final category, modern championships, was tricky.

She said there was a superb atmosphere of collaboration, inclusiveness and support at the competition.

Organisers were supported over the weekend by a large team of local volunteers and the backing of local sponsors.

“It has been wonderful to see dance parents, enthusiasts, supporters and local businesses come together to help bring the event to life. We simply couldn’t have delivered this event without their generosity,” Maxine said.