A four-day dance competition and ‘celebration of dance’ which ended on Monday (April 15) attracted 118 dancers from Wānaka and beyond.

More than 550 items were performed at the Lake Wānaka Centre over the course of the competition, which was the first major event organised by the recently formed Tititea Performing Arts Trust.

The trust was created by local women Gillian White, Leigh Cohen, Maxine Frazer, and Maria Hearle with the goal of creating an annual event that fosters a welcoming, supportive and enjoyable culture for performers from all backgrounds, geographical areas and abilities. 

Read more New performing arts trust encourages love of dance

Maxine said a large team of local volunteers and generous sponsors and donors made the inaugural event possible.

Almost 120 dancers performed at the Lake Wānaka Centre during the competition.

“This has been a real community effort,” she said. 

“It has been wonderful to see dance parents, enthusiasts, supporters and local businesses come together to help bring the event to life.” 

In addition to creating a Wānaka-based competition, the event also succeeded in its goal of promoting wellbeing and learning for young dancers, Maxine said.

“Competitors were given detailed feedback, support, guidance and even impromptu mini workshops from our highly experienced adjudicator,” she said.

Categories included ballet, contemporary, hip hop, jazz, self choreography and more.

“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.

“There was an excellent atmosphere across four days. We were delighted to see dancers from across the South Island supporting and encouraging each other right throughout the competition.”

Awards were given for achievements in a range of dance categories across all age groups, with the youngest dancer having just turned five. 

Categories included ballet, contemporary, hip hop, jazz, self choreography and many more. Most were solo performances with a number also involving duos and groups dancing together. 

In addition, four dancers received National Young Performer classical nominations to perform in the National Performing Arts Competition in Palmerston North in October, alongside other classical nominees from across the country. 

The competition also promoted wellbeing and learning for young dancers, organisers said.

At the final prizegiving on Monday evening, professional adjudicator Sarah Knox said the standard of dancing had been very high and commented on the atmosphere of collaboration, inclusiveness and support at the competition.

Maxine said she and the other trustees are gathering feedback from dancers and parents to identify any refinements for future years’ competitions. 

“But first, we’re all taking a short break - we have some sleep to catch up on.”

PHOTOS: Supplied