30/05/2026
People will often ask me why I place so much value on our soloist program. On the surface, it can look like it’s all about competitions, placings and trophies. But it actually has very little to do with trophies (although they’re always a nice bonus and look pretty good on their bedroom shelves!).
Being a competitive soloist teaches kids so much more than dance.
✨It teaches COMMITMENT - following through on something they’ve chosen to do, even when it’s not easy.
✨It teaches ACCOUNTABILITY - and understanding that effort matters and that the work you put in often influences the outcome you get.
✨It teaches RESILIENCE - and learning to keep going when things feel hard, when nerves kick in, or when the result isn’t what you hoped for.
✨It teaches PRIDE IN EFFORT - walking off stage knowing you genuinely gave it your best, regardless of where you placed.
✨It teaches WORK ETHIC - understanding that improvement comes from showing up, practising, taking corrections on board and doing the work.
✨It teaches RESPECT - for your teachers, fellow dancers, adjudicators, and the people who invest their time and energy into helping you grow.
✨It teaches a GROWTH MINDSET - understanding that talent is wonderful, but talent alone isn’t what creates progress.
✨It teaches PASSION & PURPOSE - helping children discover the joy that comes from pursuing something they love.
✨And it teaches them the VALUE OF STRIVING FOR EXCELLENCE, not for a trophy or recognition, but because there’s something incredibly rewarding about working hard, improving, and discovering what you’re capable of.
Of course, I love seeing my dancers succeed. But what makes me proud isn’t a trophy. It’s seeing them set a goal, work towards it, overcome challenges, learn from setbacks, and have the courage to step on stage and perform on their own.
Watching them discover what they’re capable of will always mean more to me than any result.
They may not even realise it yet, but these are actually the lessons they’ll carry with them into school, work, relationships and life. 💛🖤
