By Emma Schenk
TWO groups of eight junior hip-hop dancers from Cranbourne to Rowville are thrilled to represent Australia in the Hip Hop International Championships in Las Vegas this July.
Addicted to Dance and Babysteps will dance their heart out in the four-day competition in the varsity and junior competitions consecutively.
Both teams recently took first place in their separate divisions at the Mooney Valley Council Competition Step Off, giving them the opportunity to represent Australia.
Addicted to Dance has 16 dancers aged under 18 who meet on the streets three times a week to learn the art of hip-hop.
“We formed about six months ago and are more like a family now,” said teacher Sabrina Duchenne.
“They’ve worked so hard to get to this level. They really deserve it.”
Babysteps is also on its way to Vegas, and has showcased talent alongside big international names, including Poreotics and Quest Crew as well as local group Justice Crew.
Babysteps and Addicted to Dance will now undergo intense training schedules to ensure they are at their best when they represent Australia.
Mitchell Newton, aged 11, is one of the dancers from Babysteps travelling to America to compete.
The 11-year-old gave up footy for dancing three years ago, and hasn’t looked back since.
“All the kids in the group love dancing, and it’s such a big part of their lives,” said Mitchell’s mum, Rebecca Newton.
“Dance teaches kids about teamwork and dedication. It gives them great confidence in their lives,” Ms Duchenne said.
To raise money for expenses, Babysteps is holding a benefit concert as well as fund-raising workshops where children will have the chance to learn similar routines.
Addicted to Dance is also hosting a concert on 29 May at the Pakenham Cardinia Cultural Centre.
For more information, contact Babysteps: Jayde Robertson on 0433 063 056, or Addicted to Dance: Sabrina Duchenne: 0413 961 140.
Any help from the community would be greatly appreciated.
