More than 100 young dancers from Wānaka and further afield are competing in a four-day dance competition at the Lake Wānaka Centre starting today (Friday April 11).

This is the second annual Tititea Performing Arts Competition, described by organisers as a ‘celebration of dance’.

The competition is organised by the Tititea Performing Arts Trust, who were keen to build on the success of last year’s event, founding trustee Leigh Cohen said.

“We’re really excited to be bringing this event back to Wānaka for its second year,” Leigh said.

“It means that local dancers can take part in a dance event with healthy competition, but without the usual many hours of travel and overnight accommodation. 

“At the same time, it encourages dancers and their families from outside the Upper Clutha to visit the area.”

Organisers are expecting around 125 dancers to attend and there will be well over 600 performances from dancers across the four days.

Organisers say there will be more than 600 performances across the four-day event.

Leigh said that in addition to creating a Wānaka based dance competition, the event was also designed to promote wellbeing and learning for young dancers. 

This is part of the ethos of the Tititea Performing Arts Trust, which was formed by four local women in 2023 to encourage a love of performing arts in young people.

“Dancers will receive plenty of feedback, support and guidance, and we are delighted to have acclaimed choreographer and performer Dr Sarah Foster-Sproull as our adjudicator for the event,” Leigh said.

“She has already sent dancers some pre-recorded messages about how to prepare for the event, and we are delighted that she is staying on after the event to host a workshop.”

Leigh thanked the volunteers, sponsors, local businesses, individuals and community organisations who had made the event possible.

“We’re so grateful to our generous community.”

PHOTOS: Supplied