An Interview with Showcase Australia’s Dancer of the Year and WDM Dancer, Isobel Kinnear.

26 Aug

*** SCORRI IN BASSO PER LEGGERE IN ITALIANO ***

We had the pleasure to ask a few questions to Isobel Kinnear, Showcase Australia‘s Dancer of the Year 2018 who participated in World Dance Movement – The International Festival last year and again this summer.

We hope you enjoy this interview and we are looking forward to dancing with you at WDM Italy 2020 next July! Registration opens on October 15, 2019.

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WDM: How did you find out about World Dance Movement – The International Festival?

Isobel: I first heard of World Dance Movement when I was competing in the National Finals of Showcase Dance in Australia in 2018. The winner of Dancer of the Year (DOTY) was to receive a trip to WDM Italy! I was so thrilled when after a week of competition I was lucky enough to be chosen as the Teen DOTY winning this amazing trip! I loved my experience there so much in 2018 that I travelled back to attend Week 1 at WDM Italy in 2019!

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WDM: Which classes did you take at the event? Tell us a little bit more about them.

Isobel: This year I mainly took class with the amazing Veronica Peparini whose choreography I adore! I took both of her intermediate & advanced classes & I enjoyed every minute! I have also taken class with the inspiring Desmond Richardson and Bruno Collinet.

WDM: What was the best part of being at WDM Italy?

Isobel: The best part about WDM for me is taking class from great teachers that I would never normally have the chance to work with, taking part in auditions, meeting & reconnecting with so many of my gorgeous friends & performing in the Gala night – an amazing outdoor performance & an experience not to be missed!

WDM: Did you do some sightseeing while at the event? What places did you visit?

Isobel: Puglia is such a beautiful part of the world & I have loved discovering just a little of it whilst at WDM Italy. I have spent quite a lot of time in the gorgeous seaside town of Polignano a Mare. This year I also visited beautiful historic Monopoli as well as spent a weekend at the luxury Coccaro Beach Club in Savelletri! I aim to see the world heritage listed town of Alberobello the next time I visit.

WDM: You won several scholarships at WDM Italy. Which ones?

Isobel: In 2018 I was lucky enough to receive 2 scholarships – one to AMDA in New York for a summer intensive & one to return to WDM Italy in 2019 which I was so happy to take up! In 2019 I was thrilled (& shocked) to receive an amazing $40,000 scholarship to AMDA, a 2 week summer intensive at the Peridance Capezio Center in New York & another scholarship to return to WDM in 2020!

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With Peter Oxford, Creator of Showcase Australia

WDM: How was your overall experience at WDM Italy?

Isobel: In both 2018 & in 2019 attending WDM Italy has been an absolute highlight of my year! Travelling to such a gorgeous part of the world, having the opportunity to work with incredible teachers & meeting lifelong like-minded friends has made for beautiful memories that I cherish. 

WDM: What would you tell a dancer that is considering to come to WDM?

Isobel: I would tell any dancer to book now and enjoy every moment ! I have been so lucky to have had the most amazing time at WDM Italy and I could never have imagined that I would love my experiences there so much – it truly has been life-changing for me & I can’t wait to go back! 


*** ITALIANO ***

Abbiamo avuto il piacere di fare alcune domande a Isobel Kinnear, Showcase’s Australia’s Dancer of the Year 2018, che ha partecipato al World Dance Movement – The International Festival lo scorso anno e di nuovo questa estate.

Speriamo che vi piaccia questa intervista e non vediamo l’ora di danzare con voi al WDM Italy 2020 il prossimo luglio! Le iscrizioni apriranno il 15 ottobre 2019.

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WDM: Come sei venuta a conoscenza del World Dance Movement – The International Festival?

Isobel: Ho sentito parlare per la prima volta del World Dance Movement mentre partecipavo alle finali nazionali di Showcase Australian Dance Championships nel 2018. Il vincitore del Dancer of the Year (DOTY) avrebbe ricevuto un viaggio in WDM Italia! Ero così elettrizzato quando dopo una settimana di gare ho avuto la fortuna di essere scelta come Teen DOTY vincendo questo fantastico viaggio! Ho amato così tanto la mia esperienza lì nel 2018 che sono tornata di nuovo per partecipare alla prima settimana del WDM Italia 2019!

WDM: A quali lezioni hai partecipato quest’anno? 

Isobel: Quest’anno ho partecipato alle lezioni con la straordinaria Veronica Peparini di cui adoro le coreografie! Mi sono iscritta sia lezioni intermedie che a quelle avanzate e mi sono goduto ogni minuto! Ho anche fatto lezione con i grandi Desmond Richardson e Bruno Collinet.

WDM: Qual è stata la parte migliore dell’essere alla WDM Italia?

Isobel: La cosa migliore del WDM per me è stata partecipare a delle lezione di grandi insegnanti con cui normalmente non avrei mai avuto l’opportunità di lavorare, prendere parte alle audizioni, rincontrare tanti miei amici e esibirmi nella serata di Gala – uno spettacolo all’aperto straordinario e un’esperienza da non perdere!

WDM: Hai fatto qualche escursione turistica mentre eri al WDM Italia? Quali luoghi hai visitato?

Isobel: La Puglia è bellissima e mi è piaciuto esplorarla un po’ mentre ero al WDM Italia. Ho trascorso parecchio tempo nella splendida cittadina balneare di Polignano a Mare. Quest’anno ho anche visitato la bellissima Monopoli e ho trascorso un weekend al lussuoso Coccaro Beach Club a Savelletri! Ho intenzione di vedere la città di Alberobello, dichiarata patrimonio mondiale dell’umanità, la prossima estate!

WDM: Hai vinto diverse borse di studio al WDM Italia. Quali?

Isobel: Nel 2018 ho avuto la fortuna di ricevere 2 borse di studio: una per l’AMDA di New York per un corso estivo intensivo e una per il WDM Italia 2019. Nel 2019 sono stato felicissima di ricevere una straordinaria borsa di studio da $40.000 per l’AMDA, 2 settimane presso il Peridance Capezio Center di New York e un’altra borsa di studio per tornare al WDM Italia nel 2020!

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WDM: Complessivamente com’è stata la tua esperienza al WDM Italia?

Isobel: Sia nel 2018 che nel 2019 frequentare WDM Italia è stato il momento più bello del mio anno! Viaggiare in una parte così meravigliosa del mondo, avere l’opportunità di lavorare con insegnanti incredibili e incontrare amici straordinari, ha creato dei bei ricordi che porterò sempre nel cuore.

WDM: Cosa diresti a un danzatore che sta pensando di venire a WDM Italia?

Isobel: Direi a qualsiasi danzatore di prenotare ora e godersi ogni momento! Sono stato così fortunato ad aver passato dei momenti incredibili al WDM Italia e non avrei mai immaginato che avrei amato così tanto la mia esperienze lì – è stato davvero un cambiamento per me e non vedo l’ora di tornarci!

From World Dance Movement to Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui’s Eastman Company

18 Oct

Enjoy this interview with WDM dancer Verdiano Cassano, who was chosen by world-renowned choreographer Sidi Larbu Cherkaoui to perform in one his company’s performances in Italy this past September.

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Ph: Mariagrazia Proietto. Gala Performance @ WDM Italy, Castellana Grotte (BA)

WDM: You recently had the opportunity to perform with Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui’s Eastman company at Teatro Regio in Torino. How did you connect with him and how was the experience?

Verdiano: Last September I performed in the evocative setting of the Teatro Regio of Turin in “Icon“, a 2016 production choreographed by Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui. It was a very emotional professional experience, an opportunity for personal and artistic growth but above all a unique honor.

I was lucky to meet Sidi Larbi during the third week of WDM Italy last July, and I am obviously grateful to Michèle Assaf and WDM who as, every year, through this international festival, they offer fantastic opportunities to the dancers who participate.

Not even a month later, Sidi Larbi contacted me asking if I was available to replace one of his Eastman‘s dancers, the company (based in Antwerp, Belgium) that he founded and directs. Without thinking twice, in the grip of a thousand emotions, with a last-minute suitcase and perhaps a bit of unconsciousness, I took a flight to Brussels and the next day I was already in the rehearsal room.

Never having experienced an experience like this before, I learned what it means to play the role of a dancer in an already existing show: a real race against time. At the same time, the possibility of sharing the rehearsal room first and the stage later, with such talented professional dancers, was an extremely positive and stimulating experience.

Being on stage on that occasion, in that theater, together with those dancers, dancing a piece by a contemporary and generous artist like Sidi Larbi, was something indescribable and indelible!

WATCH AN EXTRACT FROM “ICON” HERE.

WDM: Tell us more about his class at WDM Italy this past summer.

Verdiano: This year Sidi Larbi taught at WDM for the first time, during the third week: taking part in his workshop was an honor shared by all the dancers participating in the event, a stimulating path that led to the staging of a performance of great impact.

During his lessons the focus was immediately placed on learning choreographic sequences, expression of his style, his repertoire and his artistic conception. Even if it was our first experience with his work, through a detailed and in-depth study, Sidi Larbi was able to guide us in the creation of a piece of evocative and engaging contemporary dance, not only for the performers, but also for the audience.

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From “Icon” – Eastman Company @ Teatro Regio, Torino (Italy)

WDM: You have been part of the WDM Family for several years. When did you first attend our dance festival and why have you kept coming?

Verdano: I remember very well the first year at WDM! On that occasion, even though I did not take part in the classes, I attended the final gala, when the gala still took place at the amphitheater of Annalisa Bellini’s Artinscena dance school.

I still remember the feeling I felt in front of the many performances of that evening: pure energy, enthusiasm, passion, adrenaline, but above all, lots of art, many dancers, many teachers and choreographers, many languages, many choreographic styles, many nationalities, all united in the same place, with the same goal, to share emotions through dance.

That’s why the following year I did not think twice about it and I began my experience that led me to become part of the WDM family.

WDM: Based on your experience, what makes World Dance Movement different from other dance events?

Verdiano: World Dance Movement, in my opinion, is not just a workshop, it is not just an international festival, let alone a dance event. It’s all this and much more, a 360-degree experience!

WDM allows you to travel, to study for one, two or three weeks with some of the most important and established teachers and choreographers in the national and international art scene, to talk with them and learn more about their experience.

It also allows you to meet dancers of other nationalities and share with them not only classes but also the free time in the unique and evocative setting of Castellana Grotte and the Puglia region; all this having, at the same time, the opportunity to take part in renowned auditions and castings, to dance pieces created by the choreographers during the classes and above all to win scholarships for workshops and events around the World!

I think you can not ask for anything better, try to believe it!

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From “Icon” – Eastman Company @ Teatro Regio, Torino (Italy)

WDM: What advice would you give to a dancer join a World Dance Movement event for the first time?

Verdiano: Participating in WDM is a unique experience and for those who will do it for the first time, I want to tell them there is nothing to fear! The atmosphere during the workshop is of great serenity and sharing. Not surprisingly, WDM is now a large extended dance family!

The only advice I would give to those who have not yet partecipate is to come to Castellana Grotte  from July 7 to the 29th, 2019 to study hard, experiment, get involved in this inimitable experience!

WDM: What are your plans for the near future?

Verdiano: In the near future, the national tour of the musical “Romeo Giulietta Ama e Cambia il Mondo“, a show directed by Giuliano Peparini and choreographed by Veronica Peparini. I also want to explore contemporary dance in Europe and everything it has to offer.

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*** ITALIANO ***

Abbiamo il piacere di presentarvi una bella intervista con il danzatore del WDM Verdiano Cassano, che lo scorso Settembre è stato scelto dal rinomato coreografo Sidi Larbu Cherkaoui per esibirsi con la sua compagnia.

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Ph: Mariagrazia Proietto. Gala Performance @ WDM Italy, Castellana Grotte (BA)

WDM: Recentemente hai avuto l’opportunità di esibirti in “Icon” con la compagnia Eastman di Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui al Teatro Regio di Torino. Come sei entrato in contatto con lui e com’è stata l’esperienza?

Verdiano: Lo scorso Settembre mi sono esibito nella suggestiva cornice del Teatro Regio di Torino in “Icon”, creazione del 2016 con le coreografie di Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui. Un’esperienza professionale fortemente emozionante, un’opportunità di crescita personale ed artistica ma soprattutto un onore unico nel suo genere.

Ho avuto la fortuna di conoscere Sidi Larbi durante la terza settimana del WDM Italia lo scorso luglio, e di questo sono ovviamente riconoscente nei confronti di Michèle Assaf e del WDM che ogni anno attraverso questo festival internazionale offrono grandi opportunità ai danzatori che vi partecipano.

Così, neanche un mese dopo, Sidi Larbi mi ha contattato chiedendomi se fossi disponibile per sostituire uno dei suoi danzatori della Eastman, la compagnia da lui fondata e diretta, con sede ad Antwerp in Belgio. Senza pensarci su due volte, in preda a mille emozioni, con un valigia dell’ultimo minuto e forse un pizzico di incoscienza, ho preso un volo per Bruxelles e il giorno successivo ero già in sala prove.

Non avendo mai vissuto un’esperienza come questa in precedenza, ho imparato cosa voglia dire ricoprire il ruolo di un danzatore all’interno di uno spettacolo già esistente: una vera e propria corsa contro il tempo, ma paragonata alla possibilità di condividere la sala prove prima e il palco poi con danzatori professionisti del loro calibro, ovviamente ha assunto una connotazione positiva e stimolante.

Essere stato in scena in quell’occasione, in quel teatro, assieme a quei danzatori, con le coreografie di un artista contemporaneo e generoso come Sidi Larbi è stato per certi versi qualcosa di indescrivibile, ma senza dubbio qualcosa di indelebile!

PUOI GUARDARE UN BREVE ESTRATTO DI “ICON” QUI.

WDM: Parlaci un po’ delle sue lezioni al WDM Italy 2018.

Verdiano: Quest’anno Sidi Larbi ha insegnato per la prima volta al WDM, durante la terza settimana: prendere parte al suo workshop è stato un onore condiviso da tutti i danzatori presenti, un percorso stimolante che ha portato alla messa in scena di una performance densa e di gran impatto.

Durante le sue lezioni il focus è stato da subito posto sull’apprendimento di sequenze coreografiche, espressione del suo stile, del suo repertorio e della sua concezione artistica; nonostante si trattasse per tutti del primo approccio al suo linguaggio, attraverso uno studio dettagliato e approfondito, Larbi ci ha condotto alla creazione di una piece di danza contemporanea evocativa e coinvolgente, non solo per noi esecutori, ma anche per il pubblico presente.

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From “Icon” – Eastman Company @ Teatro Regio, Torino (Italy)

WDM: Fai parte della WDM family da diversi anni. Quando hai partecipato per la prima volta al nostro festival e cosa ti spinge a continuare a partecipare?

Verdano: Ricordo molto bene il primo anno del WDM! In quell’occasione pur non avendo preso parte alle lezioni, ho assistito al gala conclusivo, quando ancora il gala si svolgeva presso l’anfiteatro della scuola Artinscena di Annalisa Bellini.

Ricordo ancora la sensazione che ho provato di fronte alle molteplici performance di quella serata: energia pura, entusiasmo, passione, adrenalina, ma soprattutto tanta arte, tanti danzatori, tanti insegnanti e coreografi, tanti linguaggi, tanti stili coreografici, tante nazionalità, tutti uniti in uno stesso posto con uno stesso obiettivo, ovvero condividere emozioni attraverso la danza.

È per questo che l’anno successivo non ci ho pensato due volte e così ha avuto inizio la mia esperienza che mi ha portato a diventare parte della famiglia del WDM.

WDM: In base alla tua esperienza, cosa rende il World Dance Movement diverso da altri eventi di danza?

Verdiano: Il World Dance Movement, a mio parere, non è solo uno stage, non solo un festival internazionale, ne tanto meno solo un evento di danza. È tutto questo e molto più, un’esperienza a 360 gradi!

Il WDM ti consente di viaggiare, di studiare per una, due o tre settimane con alcuni tra i più importanti e affermati insegnanti e coreografi nel panorama artistico nazionale e internazionale, di confrontarti con loro e apprendere qualcosa in più sulla loro esperienza.

Ti consente inoltre di conoscere danzatori di altre nazionalità e condividere con loro non solo lo studio in sala ma anche del tempo libero in una cornice unica e suggestiva come quella di Castellana Grotte e della Puglia; tutto ciò avendo allo stesso tempo l’opportunità di prendere parte ad audizioni e casting rinomati, danzare le creazioni coreografiche ideate dagli insegnanti durante le lezioni e soprattutto vincere borse di studio per stage e workshop in tutto il mondo!

Credo che non si possa chiedere di meglio, provare per crederci!

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From “Icon” – Eastman Company @ Teatro Regio, Torino (Italy)

WDM: Quale consiglio daresti a un danzatore che desidera partecipare ad un evento del World Dance Movement per la prima volta?

Verdiano: Partecipare al WDM è un’esperienza unica nel suo genere e per chi dovesse farlo per la prima volta, non c’è nulla da temere! L’atmosfera che si vive durante lo stage è di grande serenità e condivisione, non a caso la WDM family oramai è una grande famiglia allargata!

L’unico consiglio che darei a chi non l’ha ancora fatto è di venire a Castellana Grotte dal 7 al 29 luglio 2019, di studiare sodo, di sperimentare, lasciarsi coinvolgere e trasportare in questa esperienza inimitabile!

WDM: Quali sono i tuoi programmi per il futuro immediato?

Verdiano: Nel futuro immediato si prospetta la ripresa della tournée nazionale dell’opera musicale “Romeo Giulietta Ama e Cambia il Mondo“, uno spettacolo con la regia di Giuliano Peparini e le coreografie di Veronica Peparini, e per il resto, c’è sicuramente la volontà e la curiosità di esplorare la realtà della danza contemporanea all’interno del panorama artistico europeo.

10 REASONS – 10 FRIENDS – 10 YEARS Contest

22 May

*** Scorri in basso per leggere in italiano ***

JOIN US IN CELEBRATING OUR WORLD DANCE MOVEMENT TEN YEAR ANNIVERSARY!

10 reasons friends years! (1)

How to enter our 10 REASONS – 10 FRIENDS – 10 YEARS Contest.

RULES:

1. Post a photo of yourself dancing on your Facebook wall or on your Instagram account with 10 reasons why you would like to join us at WDM Italy from July 8-29, 2018. ie: 1. eat pasta 2. meet new friends etc…

2. You must make your post public so we can find your post.

3. You must use the following hashtags: #WorldDanceMovement #WDMItaly #WDM10Years

4. You must Tag 10 different dance friends in the first comment below the image inviting them to participate.

Everyone who enters will be put in a drawing to win one free week of WDM classes at World Dance Movement Italy 2018.  You have time until  June 1, 2018 to participate in the contest. We will announce the winner on our Facebook and Instagram pages and send you a private message. (Travel, housing, meals, registration fee and extra workshop classes not included. If you are already registered for WDM Italy 2018, you can add an additional week for this year or you can use it for 2019)

Good luck!!!


*** ITALIANO ***

UNISCITI A NOI NEL FESTEGGIARE IL 10^ ANNIVERSARIO DEL WORLD DANCE MOVEMENT!

Come partecipare al 10 REASONS – 10 FRIENDS – 10 YEARS Contest.

REGOLAMENTO:

1. Pubblica una foto mentre danzi sulla tua bacheca Facebook o sul tuo profilo Instagram con 10 motivi per i quali ti piacerebbe partecipare al WDM Italia dall’8 al 29 Luglio 2018. es: 1. la cucina pugliese 2. conoscere dei nuovi amici ecc…

2. La foto deve essere pubblica affinché ci sia possibile visualizzarla.

3. Devi utilizzare i seguenti hashtag: #WorldDanceMovement #WDMItaly #WDM10Years

4. Devi taggare 10 amici di danza differenti nel primo commento sotto la foto che pubblicherai.

Tutti quelli che parteciperanno avranno la possibilità di vincere una settimana gratuita di lezioni al World Dance Movement Italia 2018. Il contest è aperto fino al 1 Giugno 2018. Il vincitore sarà annunciato sulla nostra pagina Facebook e Instagram oltre ad inviare un messaggio privato al diretto interessato. (Viaggio, vitto e alloggio, spese di registrazione e workshop extra non sono inclusi nella vincita. Se sei già iscritto al WDM Italia 2018, potrai scegliere di aggiungere una settimana o di partecipare nel 2019.) 

In bocca al lupo!!!

An Interview with Clarissa Mucci, Classical Ballet Teacher at World Dance Movement.

10 Jan

*** SCORRI IN BASSO PER LEGGERE IN ITALIANO ***

Here are some words of advice from our World Dance Movement faculty member, Clarissa Mucci. She is a world-renowned Classical Ballet  teacher and will teach at WDM Italy: WEEK 2: July 16 – July 21.

Enjoy!

Want to ask more questions? Leave a comment below or on our Facebook, Instagram, Twitter pages with #AskClarissa. 

CLARISSA_MUCCI.pngWDM: What advice would you give to a dancer about auditioning?

Clarissa: Other than great training, students need to have a 360-degree look into the dance industry because there is only ONE dance. There is not a “good” type of dance a “bad” type of dance. Having said that, I do want to stress the importance of Ballet. It is fundamental and the first part of all auditions is a ballet class, from Teatro alla Scala to Pina Bausch.
WDM: What advice would you give to a dancer who was told “you don’t have the right body to be a classical ballet dancer”? 
Clarissa: Dance needs talent, dynamics, musicality, good technique, but also needs an harmonic and proportionate body. Unfortunately, after teenage years, dancers watch their bodies change. Sometimes this can limit a dancer’s career on stage in the classical ballet world, but dance will still have formed the dancer both physically and mentally providing them with the opportunity to be a brilliant teacher (if they study to become one). Not all great dancers can become great teachers. My university, where I have been teaching for over 36 years, has courses for both teachers and choreographers.
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WDM: Do you remember your first dance teacher?
Clarissa: My first teacher was Lia Calizza, a woman who gave me so much, both technically and on a personal level. She was sweet and understanding, but also very demanding. I still thank her for what she gave me.
WDM: How do you motivate and stimulate your students?
Clarissa: I love my students, they motivate me with their work and dedication. I always remind them that when working you always need to have the humility to learn and the honesty to recognize your capabilities. I love honest work and students who work hard every day to become better than the previous day. I love Artists, those with a dancing soul, those who can move you with a Port de Bras. A Port de Bras never lies.
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You can check out Clarissa’s full biohere. To register for World Dance Movement – The International Festival, please visitwww.WDMItaly.com.

*** ITALIANO ***
Oggi abbiamo il piacere di presentarvi un’intervista che abbiamo fatto con l’insegnante del World Dance Movement, Clarissa Mucci che insegnerà Danza Classica al WDM Italy: SETTIMANA 2: 16-21 Luglio.
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Buona lettura!
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Volete fare altre domande? Lasciate un commento qui sotto o sulle nostre pagine Facebook, Instagram, Twittercon #AskClarissa. 

WDM: Che consiglio daresti ad un danzatore per le audizioni? 

Clarissa: Dopo una buona formazione, lo studente deve aprire lo sguardo nel mondo lavorativo a 360 gradi, perché la Danza è UNA e non esiste quella di serie A e quella di serie B. Mi preme però ricordare che la Danza Classica è la base e che in tutte le audizioni. La prima prova è la lezione di classico, dal Tatro alla Scala alla compagnia di Pina Bausch. 

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WDM: Cosa consiglieresti ad uno studente al quale è stato detto che non ha “il corpo adatto” per essere un danzatore classico? 

Clarissa: Un buon danzatore classico ha bisogno di talento, una dinamica, un’ottima musicalità e una buona tecnica. Ha bisogno di una bella figura, armonica e proporzionata.

Ragazzi/e dopo l’adolescenza, vedono cambiare e trasformare il proprio corpo. Questo purtroppo può creare un limite alla carriera professionale, ma sicuramente la Danza avrà educato nel fisico e nella mente, un futuro spettatore, critico di danza e dopo un percorso di studi metodologici, un futuro Insegnante. Non sempre un Ottimo Danzatore diventerà un Ottimo insegnante. Nella mia Accademia dove lavoro da 36 anni, abbiamo i corsi universitari per Insegnanti e Coreografi. 

WDM: Ricordi la tua prima insegnante di danza? 

Clarissa: La mia prima insegnante si chiama Lia Calizza, una donna che mi ha dato molto, sia sotto il profilo tecnico, ma soprattutto sotto il profilo umano. Era dolce e comprensiva ma molto esigente e ancora oggi la ringrazio per tutto quello che mi ha dato.

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WDM: Come motivi e stimoli i tuoi studenti?

Clarissa: Io amo molto i miei studenti, sono loro che motivano me, con il loro lavoro e la loro dedizione. Io ricordo loro che nel lavoro bisogna aver sempre l’Umiltà di imparare e l’onestà di riconoscere le proprie possibilità. Amo il lavoro Onesto e gli studenti che ogni giorno, lavorano per conquistare un risultato migliore del giorno passato. Amo gli artisti, quelli con un anima danzante, quelli che mi emozionano con un Port de bras. Il port de bras non mente Mai.

Potete leggere la biografia di Clarissa Mucciqui. Per iscrivervi al World Dance Movement – The International Festival, visitate www.WDMItaly.com.

Q&A with WDM Faculty Member Macia Del Prete.

15 Nov

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*** SCORRI IN BASSO PER LEGGERE IN ITALIANO ***

We are excited to have Macia Del Prete with us again at WDM Italy 2018 to celebrate our 10 Year Anniversary! Here some fun questions she answered for us. Do you have more? Leave a comment below or on our Facebook, Instagram, Twitter pages with #AskMacia.

WDM: What are the three words that best describe you?

Macia: Straightforward, moody, observant.

WDM: If you were stranded on a desert island, name three things you would bring.

Macia: An ipod with Billie Holiday’s discography, a pencil, a notebook.

WDM: Who is your favorite famous person?

Macia: Salvator Dalì.

WDM: Who is your favorite dancer?

Macia: From the past, Gene Kelly. Nowadays, Jillian Meyer.

WDM: What are the projects you are most proud of in your dancer / choreographer career.

Macia: One : “Finding….what?” with my OL3 DC… it was my first real and strong creative initiative! Others will come…

WDM: Complete the sentence: If I were not a dancer, I would be ________.

Macia: A sax player.

WDM: Who has influenced you the most in your dancer career?

Macia: Saturday’s variety shows on Italian TV that represent my childhood… Mauro Astolfi in my teens; William Foresythe who will probably influence my entire life.

WDM: Complete the sentence: When I am not dancing, I am _________.

Macia: Walking among people…

WDM: What is your favorite city?

Macia: NYC.

WDM: What is the next city that you would like to visit?

Macia: Tel Aviv.

WDM: Complete the sentence: When I pack, I always bring ________.

Macia: Thousands of shoes!

Click on the image to watch a piece created by Macia at WDM Italy 2017
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Macia will teach Contemporary Dance (INT) and a Contemporary Choreographic Workshop (ADV/Professional) at WDM Italy 2018, week 3: July 24-29. For information and to register, please visit www.WDMItaly.com.

*** ITALIANO ***
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Avremo il piacere di avere ancora con noi Macia Del Prete al WDM Italia 2018 per festeggiare il nostro 10^ Anniversario! Le abbiamo fatto delle brevi domande per conoscerla ancora meglio. Siete curiosi di sapere altro? Lasciate un commento qui sotto o sulle nostre pagine Facebook, Instagram, Twitter con #AskMacia. Buona lettura!

WDM: Quali sono le 3 parole che ti descrivono al meglio?

Macia: Diretta, lunatica, osservatrice.

WDM: Se fossi su un’isola deserta e potessi portare solo tree cose, quali sarebbero?

Macia: Un ipod con tutta la discografia di Billie Holiday, una matita, un quaderno.

WDM: Chi è il tuo personaggio famoso preferito?

Macia: Salvator Dalì.

WDM: Chi è il tuo ballerino/a preferito/a?

Macia: Del passato, Gene Kelly. Del presente, Jillian Meyer.

WDM: Indica 3 dei progetti dei quali sei più orgoglioso/a nella tua carriera di ballerino/a – coreografo/a.

Macia: Uno: “Finding….what?” con OL3 DC…  è stata la mia prima vera iniziativa creativa! Ce ne saranno altri…

WDM: Completa la frase: Se non fossi una danzatrice/coreografa, sarei ________.

Macia: Una sassofonista.

WDM: Chi ha influenzato di più la tua carriera?

Macia: I programmi di varietà della TV italiana degli anni ’80/’90 che rappresentano la mia infanzia… Mauro Astolfi durante l’adolescenza; William Foresythe che probabilmente mi continuerà ad influenzare per tutta la vita.

 

WDM: Completa la frase: Quando non sto ballando, sto _________.

Macia: Camminando tra la gente…

WDM: Qual’è la tua città preferita al mondo?

Macia: NYC.

WDM: Qual’è la prossima città che vorresti visitare?

Macia: Tel Aviv.

WDM: Completa la frase: Quando faccio le valigie porto sempre con me ________.

Macia: Migliaia di scarpe!

Macia insegnerà contemporaneo (INT) e un Workshop Coreografico Contemporaneo (ADV/Professionale) al WDM Italia 2018, terza settimana: 24-29 Luglio. Per maggiori informazioni e per iscriversi: www.WDMItaly.com.

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Interview with Kari Williams, Director of Dance at Sacred Heart University.

29 Aug

This year we had the pleasure to have with us at World Dance Movement – The International Festival in Italy,  a group of students from Sacred Heart University in Connecticut. Kari Williams, the Director of Dance at SHU, spent two weeks in Puglia with her students. She shared her thoughts about the program with us.  Here what she has to say and please feel free to share it with all your dance friends, parents and teachers. 🙂

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WDM: This was your first year at World Dance Movement Italy. How was your experience overall?

KARI: The opportunities presented to my students to grow in their artistry and be inspired and educated by international greatness were unparalleled.

WDM: What type of opportunities did your students receive at the event?

KARI: Lauren Celentano was not only chosen by the casting director of Amici, to receive a private audition and a callback but she also took 1st place in the senior solo open category division last night in the WDM international competition and was awarded literally thousands of dollars in scholarships to various dance training programs across the US.!

We had 3 opportunities to perform in the beautiful outdoor Piazza at Castellana Grotte with hundreds in attendance – they danced choreography created by world renowned artists under the stars!

Students took weekly classes in Ballet, Active Isolated Flexibility, Contemporary dance and Street Jazz with the best dance educators in the world

On the last day our dancers participated in an open Audition for Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines where they had the opportunity to earn contracts for cruise ship dance work – Our dancers that made the 1st cut & went on to round 2 were Lauren C. Elizabeth Venezia & Sarah Possenti! Lauren C. received a call back

Other SHU dance program members earning scholarships and international recognition include: Stephanie Pic: One Free Audition Technique Seminar at Stage Door Connections in NYC, Malaysia Johnson: One Week of Unlimited Dance Classes at Millennium Dance Complex in Los Angeles, Sarah Possenti: One Scholarship for classes at Steps on Broadway & One scholarship for 20 Free Classes at EDGE Performing Arts Center

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WDM: How did you enjoy the extracurricular activities offered by the event?

KARI: On our free time we traveled to Monopoli Beach (2x), Polignano a Mare, the Caves at Castellana Grotte, Alberobello, Trulli, rounding out the cultural enrichment portion of our learning agenda

 

WDM: What makes World Dance Movement different from US dance conventions?

KARI: US Conventions are great however nothing compares to sharing ONE dance floor with dancers from literally dozens of countries at once. The inspiration from this alone – knowing that your craft is universal and that it matters on a global scale – makes WDM a stand out over any US convention that one could attend.

WDM: Would you recommend World Dance Movement to other college students and their professors? Why?

KARI: It is such a unique opportunity for students to develop technical, artistic, cultural and humanistic perspective all at once. This development in turn helps elevate not only the student to a more self-actualized person and dancer but also the entire dance program wherein they live and train.

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Information about Sacred Heart University Dance Programs

SACRED HEART UNIVERSITY DANCE COMPANY AT A GLANCE

·      SHU DANCE COMPANY students are able to enjoy the benefits of a conservatory style higher education dance program in conjunction with earning their degree of choice.

·      SHU DANCE COMPANY students enjoy a diverse array of curriculum options taught by master dance educators and top industry professionals including; Classical Ballet and Pointe, Modern Dance, African Dance, Dance Conditioning, Contemporary Dance, Hip Hop, Tap, Jazz Dance and Musical Theatre Dance.

·      SHU DANCE COMPANY students are undergraduate Nursing majors, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Communications, Education majors etc.

·      SHU DANCE COMPANY students are given numerous performance opportunities both on and off campus, starting as early as their Freshman year!

·      SHU DANCE COMPANY students are proud members of the American College Dance Association which helps support and affirm dance in higher education through regional conferences, the adjudication process, and national festivals.

·      SHU DANCE COMPANY students may earn up to 1 credit per semester for participation in the program, making this a wonderful option for those pursuing a Dance Minor

·      Many SHU DANCE COMPANY students are eligible to receive performing arts dance grants and scholarship money for active participation in the program! 

Thank you for reading! Don’t forget to like this article and share on social media.


Next year is going to be our 10th Anniversary and we are planning to make it extra special!!!
 
Our 2018 events:
 

* World Dance Movement SPAIN, Sitges (Barcelona) 
@ Institute of the Arts Barcelona
   June (exact dates TBD)   + WDM International Competition – June (exact dates TBD)  

* World Dance Movement ITALY, Castellana Grotte (Bari)

   @ Artinscena di Annalisa Bellini
    July 7-29 (choose one, two or three weeks)
    + WDM International Competition – July 14

FOLLOW US on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and get updates.

Please Welcome Showcase to Our WDM Family.

12 Apr

We are excited to announce our partnership with Showcase. The winners of their Dancer of the Year Award 2017 will join us at WDM Spain 2017 – The International Workshop and Competition at the Institute of the Arts Barcelona this June.

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Our mission is to build connections between dance and diverse cultures that inspire and transform dancers around the world. Our collaborations with top international dance institutions are a key element that allows us to make the dance world more united and connected.

Showcase is the most innovative and progressive dance competition ever to be created in Australian & New Zealand history.

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Showcase is not only the original and official National Dance Championships of Australia but hailed as one of the most Elite in the World.

With over 1.5 million dollars in Cash awards and prizes given out since 1994 to aspiring Dancers, no wonder we attract some of the best dance studios in the Nation all wanting to give their dance students the best opportunity to grow and learn from the Showcase experience.

At our events, prizes are given in a way that makes everyone feel proud of what they have accomplished regardless of the score with our now famous motto “Everyone’s a STAR at Showcase”.

Peter Oxford is the Founder and CEO/President of the Showcase Australian Dance Championships & Hollywood Bound National Dance Championships, and has dominated the Dance competition industry in Australia since the mid 1990’s.

Peter Oxford and his outstanding credits and achievements within not only the dance industry but to charitable events have made him a household name when it comes to Dance.

With over 18,000 acts attending his events annually is hailed as Australia’s most successful Dance entrepreneur having created the first national innovative dance event for the industry. Over the last 25 years Peter’s efforts in producing Showcase, and later Hollywood Bound, has improved the standard of competition and the quality of dance in Australia.

These events provide a great opportunities for young dancers and have assisted in raising the profile of the Australian dance industry on the world stage.

 As we now enter our 3rd decade our event will continue to grow and evolve and not only be proudly Australian made and operated but be a fun filled family event, we take pride in what we do and have achieved with the countless numbers of Australian & New Zealand families who have supported us for over 22 years and we thank you.

 Showcase has not only become a much loved Australian icon but its also stepped onto the international stage as one of the leaders in National Dance Competitions and has been ranked as one of the Worlds best by fellow industry professionals.

Congratulations to all the winners! We look forward to have Showcase’s fantastic dancers and its Founder and CEO/President, Peter Oxford, with us at World Dance Movement Spain in Sitges.


WDM SPAIN, Sitges (Barcelona), June 3-8 (daily passes available for June 3, 4 and 5) + WDM International Dance Competition – Spain, June 3-4. Register @ www.WDMSpain.com

If you are 18+ you will have the possibility to audition for Royal Caribbean International. Click here for more information.

10 Reasons to Join a World Dance Movement Workshop.

2 Mar

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number-1

Events in fantastic locations around the world. 

Every year we provide you with the possibility to travel to international destinations while growing as a dancer and individual. Jump on board and let’s dance!

number-2

International Faculty Members.

At WDM workshops you will study with top choreographers and master teachers from several countries including Israel, Spain, France, England, Italy, Canada and USA. This will allow you to get to know how dance is experienced in different countries and across different cultures.

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Dance Scholarships.

Thanks to our supportive sponsors we will award over $500,000 in dance scholarships at WDM events. Our International WDM faculty will award them while observing dancers during all WDM classes.

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Cultural exchange.

At each WDM event you will experience the local culture as well as the one of your international faculty members and of dancers from over 25 countries. You will have the chance to learn words in different languages, find out how the dance scene/industry is in other countries as well as discover the study and professional opportunities you might have in other countries.

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Networking opportunities.

World Dance Movement events are the perfect place to showcase your talents and network with our choreographers (several of whom are also artist directors of their own dance companies). And let’s not forget about the audition opportunities!

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Performance opportunities.

Every World Dance Movement event ends with an exciting outdoor performance on a beautiful stage. You will have the chance to show what you learned throughout the week in front of dance professionals, parents, friends as well as locals who come to enjoy our shows.

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Full and real class setting.

All World Dance Movement events have complete 1h and a half to 2h dance classes in a real class setting (studios with mirrors and dance floor).

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Sightseeing.

World Dance Movement events provide you with the option to explore the country you are visiting and enjoy yourself during your downtime. You can sign-up for one of our extracurricular activities or venture on your own to see what our event locations have to offer.

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WDM Family.

At World Dance Movement we are all part of a big dance family. We dance, explore, eat and laugh together. From the very first moment you arrive at check-in, regardless of you coming with your own group or by yourself, you will immediately feel part of our dance community. #WDMfamily

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Intimate classes with one-to-one attention.

Our commitment to you: To provide an intimate class environment where you will have the opportunity to receive personal attention in a non-competitive environment. Teachers will observe you and provide you with corrections and feedback throughout the week.


So what are you waiting for? 🙂 Join us this summer!

World Dance Movement SPAIN, Sitges (Barcelona) @ Institute of the Arts BarcelonaJune 3-8. Click here for more info.

+ WDM International Competition – SPAIN – June 3-4. Click here for more info.

World Dance Movement ITALY, Castellana Grotte (Bari) @ Artinscena di Annalisa Bellini, July 9-30 (choose one, two or three weeks). Click here for more info.

 + WDM International Competition – ITALY – July 15. Click here for more info.

 

NEW Daily Passes At WDM Spain

1 Feb
***SCORRERE IN BASSO PER LEGGERE IN ITALIANO***
After a one-year break we will be back in the beautiful seaside city of Sitges (Barcelona) for World Dance Movement Spain 2017. The event will take place at the beautiful Institute of the Arts Barcelona, June 3-8.New this year at WDM Spain is the WDM International Competition at WDM Spain, on June 3 and 4.

Of course, we would love to have you with us for the entire week, but if it is not possible, we hope that you can take advantage of these daily passes and join us for part of the event, Saturday, Sunday and Monday. You will take inspiring classes; you can compete in our International Dance Competition and spend time on the beautiful beaches of Sitges between classes. Also, stay tuned…because we are making a BIG announcement soon about Monday, June 5 that you won’t want to miss.

Purchase your one-day, two-day or three-day pass or register for the entire week (June 3-8) @ www.WDMSpain.com
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DAILY PASS PRICE*:
By April 30th
€85/$90 – 1 DAY
€160/$170 – 2 DAYS
€230/$250 – 3 DAYS
Starting May 1st
€95/$105 – 1 DAY
€170/$185 – 2 DAYS
€240/$265 – 3 DAYS
*Plus Registration Fee – Max. 3 classes per day
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CLASSES:

  • Ballet
  • Contemporary
  • Theatre Dance
  • Jazz
  • Complexions Contemporary Workshop
  • MartzCDC Contemporary Workshop
  • Acrobatics for dancers
  • Lyrical
  • Commercial Dance (TV, cinema, video, commercials, etc.)
  • Active-Isolated Flexibility

EXTRAS

  • Final Gala Performance
  • Scholarships of $125,000 awarded

Download the complete class schedule here.

Learn more about the Institute of the Arts Barcelona.

An International Institute for the Performing and Recording Arts

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The Institute of the Arts Barcelona is a dynamic institute uniquely positioned to offer international performing and recording arts higher education in Europe. Students from all over the world benefit from our top-level professional teaching staff and UK university validated education in a stunning location on the shores of the Mediterranean. Institute of the Arts Barcelona is an international specialist higher education institution were you can study Acting, Dance, Film Direction, Musical Theatre, Pop Music, and Singing. For more information about their programs, please visit www.iabarcelona.com.

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***ITALIANO***

Dopo un anno di pausa torniamo nella bellissima città marittima di Sitges (Barcellona) per il World Dance Movement Spagna 2017. L’evento si svolgerà all’Institute of the Arts Barcelona, dal 3 all’8 Giugno.

 

Novità di quest’anno al WDM Spagna sarà il WDM International Competition at WDM Spagna, il 3 e 4 Giugno.

Ovviamente, ci piacerebbe avervi con noi per tutta la settimana, ma se non è possibile, speriamo che possiate approfittare dei pass giornalieri per partecipare a parte dell’evento, Sabato, Domenica e/o Lunedì. Avrete la possibilità di fare lezioni straordinarie, competere nel nostro Concorso Internazionale di Danza e rilassarvi sulle incantevoli spiagge di Sitges tra una lezione e l’atra. Inoltre, rimanete sintonizzati…perché ci sarà un grandissimo annuncio riguardo a Lunedì, 5 Giugno che non vorrete perdere.

Acquistate il vostro pass per uno, due o tre giorni o iscriviti per l’intera settimana (3-8 Giugno) su www.WDMSpain.com
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PREZZI PASS GIORNALIERI*:
Entro il 30 Aprile
€85/$90 – 1 GIORNO
€160/$170 – 2 GIORNI
€230/$250 – 3 GIORNI
Starting May 1st
€95/$105 – 1 GIORNO
€170/$185 – 2 GIORNI
€240/$265 – 3 GIORNI
*Oltre alla quota d’iscrizione – Massimo 3 lezioni al giorno
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LEZIONI:

  • Classico
  • Contemporaneo
  • Theatre Dance
  • Jazz
  • Complexions Contemporary Workshop
  • MartzCDC Contemporary Workshop
  • Danza Acrobatica
  • Lyrical
  • Danza Commerciale (TV, cinema, video, pubblicità, ecc.)
  • Active-Isolated Flexibility (metodo di stretching)

EXTRA

  • Spettacolo di Gala a fine corso
  • Saranno assegnate prestigiose Borse di Studio per il valore di $125.000

Scarica il programma delle lezioni qui.

Qualche informazione sull’Institute of the Arts Barcelona.

Un Instituto Internazionale per la Danza e la Musica. 

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L’Institute of the Arts Barcelona è un istituto dinamico che offre corsi di alto livello per studenti nel campo della danza e della musica. Studenti da ogni parte del mondo beneficiano della professionalità del corpo docente e dei corsi convalidati dall’università britannica in una sede incantevole sulle coste del Mediterraneo. L’Institute of the Arts Barcelona è un’istituzione internazionale specializzata dove si può studiare Recitazione, Danza, Cinematografia, Musical Theatre, Musica Pop, e Canto. Per maggiori informazioni riguardo ai corsi offerti, visitate www.iabarcelona.com.

The Winners of Our New Year’s Giveaway.

24 Jan

Thank you to all WDM friends for entering our New Year’s Giveaway! It has been a pleasure to read all your beautiful comments and see how many of you were excited about the possibility to receive cool prizes from BlochBroadway Dance CenterFlexistretcherJordan Matter PhotographyTezoro LIVE – Instructional Dance Videos and World Dance Movement.

Below you will find the names of the winners. Please make sure to send us a private message on our Facebook page to provide us with your email and mailing address. For those of you who didn’t win, stay tuned for new exciting opportunities. Many other giveaways are on their way so make sure sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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And the winners are…

Bloch cosmetic goody bag:
Jodi May Maxfield 
Kimberly J Wright 
Kari Williams 
Celeste Lim 
Varja Djurisic 
Gillian Garrett 
Natasha Bryan 
Brooklynne Thiessen 
Lucrezia Gurrado 
Inma Valdivia 
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Flexistretcher bag with Flexistretcher and FLX Ball:
Mindy Matako Kuhn 
 
Broadway Dance Center 5-CLASS CARD:
Andrea Swank 
 
Dancers After Dark Book by Jordan Matter Photography:
Monica Wang 
Sylvia Cheung 
 
Tezoro LIVE Dance DVDs:
10 The Care and The Feeding of a Dancer DVDs
Stephanie Nuessle 
Raluca Stanca 
Chantal Naadu Cleland 
Mary Shargatova 
Tereza Janečková 
Grace Bentley 
Jonathan Schulz 
Alegra Talavera 
Ellinor Ødegård Staurbakk 
Isabella Karlsson 
 
1 Hip Hop with Dana Foglia – Beginner DVD Series
Michelle White 
 
2 Dance Mix DVD Series
Charlotte Silver Likohugu 
Nikki Kelsey  
 
1 Lifts DVD Series
Kira Nicole Mantey 
 
World Dance Movement:
1 200euro scholarship for any 2017/2018 WDM event 
Olivia Bailes 

1 WDM t-shirt + WDM tote bag
Amy Allen