Ballet, tap, hip hop, modern, and contemporary dance lit up Gisborne’s War Memorial Theatre during the King’s Birthday weekend.
Dancers from Tairāwhiti and across the North Island showcased their talent at the annual Braemar Dance competitions, supported with a $5,000 grant from Trust Tairāwhiti.
For more than 50 years, the Braemar competitions have been a cornerstone of creative expression for dancers in Tairāwhiti. It offers a unique opportunity for local dancers of all abilities to perform and grow.
“Hosting the event here makes dance more accessible for local families while building confidence in kids. It’s great to get kids out of their comfort zone and on the stage,” says Braemar Dancing Club committee president Rosie Whitley-Harford.
The Braemar competitions are affiliated with the Performing Arts Competition Association of New Zealand (PACANZ) and feature highly qualified adjudicators, scholarships and encouragement awards. Valuable feedback is shared with young dancers to help develop their talent.
“This year, the competitions went really well. About 70 entrants participated, with 15 – 20 travelling from out of town. We gave out more scholarships and encouragement awards than ever before.”
“Bringing in outside performers allows local dancers and teachers to see how their skills stack up regionally,” says Rosie.
Looking ahead, the Braemar committee hopes to grow the event even further, with more dancers participating, offering more scholarships and encouragement awards and continuing to bring the dance community together in Tairāwhiti.
Photo courtesy Gisborne Herald