By Annie Stewart
THREE teens from an Ards dance school have danced their way to Hollywood.
Niamh Scates (17), Allie Thompson (17), and Alesha Walsh (14) have been selected to represent Northern Ireland at Dance Excellence in LA next Easter.
The girls, who train at Ards Dance Centre with Ruth Reid and Hannah McKillen, auditioned in May this year to take part in the dance festival.
Dance Excellence is an international festival for young dancers bringing together the finest dancers and studios from all over the world.
Each year there are around 31 countries and four continents represented.
Dancers will take masterclasses from top industry master teachers and choreographers in the entertainment capital of the world, Los Angeles.
Dancers will also have opportunities to showcase their dance routines currently being choreographed in DEX showcases and also Universal Studios, Hollywood on the famous City Walk stage.
Hannah McKillen and Ruth Reid, teachers at the girls dance studio said,they are proud of the girls.
“Niamh, Allie and Alesha all love dance and thrive working in a team,” said Hannah. “The girls train in our studio most nights a week, learning all genres. They compete locally and internationally.
Gail Thompson, Allie’s mum, said it is an incredible opportunity for the girls to experience their passion on the other side of the world.
“They are beyond excited to have been selected to go and it will be amazing to get to dance alongside world renowned choreographers and to get to dance on a world stage with thousands watching,” she said.
The Ards Dance Centre has asked anyone who would like to sponsor the girls on their dance journey to LA, to get in touch by contacting
ardsdancecentre@gmail.com.”
