A 16-year-old Wānaka dancer has been selected for a prestigious performance showcase in New York City.

Hunter Cranfield, who dances with Centralpoint in Wānaka, recently attended the week-long Broadway Dreams programme in Rust, Germany, with dancers from all over the world. 

At the end of the week, he was singled out as the only dancer selected to represent Broadway Dreams Germany in New York for the organisation’s international premier event.

Hunter told the Wānaka App he has been dancing for eight years.

He said the programme in Germany, where he got the chance to learn from top Broadway actors, directors and choreographers, had been an “amazing” experience.

“I also got to meet so many like minded people that love to dance,” he said.  

Broadway Dreams was founded in 2007 and it is a non-profit arts education organisation known for its immersive, mentorship-driven training model. The programme acts as a bridge between the Broadway community and the next generation of theatre artists. 

Its founder, fellow New Zealander Annette Tanne, is eager to bring talented Kiwi youngsters to experience the performing arts scene abroad. 

The event in New York, which Hunter will attend in November 2024, will provide even more opportunities for the promising young performer.

It is attended by top Broadway directors, casting agents, theatre companies, venue operators and composers who scout for new talent.

Hunter said he is excited to build further connections in the industry and learn more from all the professionals. 

“I would love to dance professionally once I have finished school and continue my training to enable me to do this,” he said.

PHOTO: Supplied