A group of talented young dancers from a Mosgiel studio will compete at the highest level of dance on offer in New Zealand, a choreographer says.
Meenan Dance Centre studio director and choreographer Shannon Cunningham said The Meenan Contemporary Group had been nominated to compete in the troupe dance section of the 43rd National Young Performers Awards in Palmerston North in October.
Fifty troupes from across New Zealand would compete.
The Mosgiel group was the only dance troupe from Otago nominated and was one of just four troupes from the South Island attending the competition.
She was ‘‘thrilled’’ when the group was nominated.
‘‘We were really lucky to be nominated on our first attempt as many groups don’t receive one at all. The girls worked really hard, so it was well deserved.’’
The troupe received its nomination on its first attempt at the Mosgiel Ballet Society competition in April.
Most of the troupes attending the competition would be aged between 16 and 24, but the Mosgiel troupe has eight members under the age of 16, including a 9-year-old troupe member.
Miss Cunningham said the two younger girls in the group ‘‘cope very well with the older girls and hold their own — they will be fantastic.’’
The girls have been training hard for the competition and some had been practising daily.
The troupe were holding a fundraising quiz night at the Taieri Bowling Club from 6.45pm on August 30.
The team would be performing on the night.
To register a team phone Anna on 021 0867-6411 or email lordfamily@slingshot.co.nz.
- Nic Duff