Today Australia and Canada—Tomorrow the World
Vikki Anthony-Hamilton and Amber Keener, Directors of Rainbow Connection are very excited to introduce the World Dance Challenge. It was formed in 2006 by Rainbow Connection and Showcase Australia Dance Championships, and will be hosted in Las Vegas at Rainbow's National Finals in July of 2007.
When Rainbow launched the "Dancer of the Year" competition in 1999,
reactions among some ran from curious to incredulous. Whether it was dreams of fame or a desire to travel, Rainbow's participants soon became believers in a theme that recognized excellence in the performance of an individual dancer. Dancers, Teachers and Parents that have literally spent a large part of their lives developing a talent, welcomed the opportunity to
qualify for the ultimate test. Only one Junior and Senior Dancer would move on to Australia or Canada, but all knew that reaching for the top always
resulted in growth. The dancers involved in the exchange between America, Canada and Australia soon realized that in addition to being accomplished artists, they were good will ambassadors. In some cases, Dancer of the Year champions were catapulted to stardom. As an example, Nick Lazzarini, a former champion, went on to win the $100,000. prize
on ABC'S "So You Think You Can Dance" show.
And now the World Dance Challenge, which is an extension of the well received Dancer of the Year competition, will greet dancers from America, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Europe and Asia. The aim is to provide a "world Stage" which will engender a sharing of knowledge , good will and love of movement.
This will take place in Rainbow's nurturing and supportive atmosphere. Dancers that accept the "Challenge" will receive free elite master classes and be part of the opening Showcase Performance all of which will be conducted by acclaimed teachers. "World" dancewear and lapel pins will be given to all participants. After the event the famous Australian "White Party" will be thrown. Something you have to see to believe.
Everyone agrees it's time for a "World Title" for groups and soloists, don't you?