13 Natasha Academy of Dancing dancers qualify for SA nationals
It’s celebration time at Natasha Academy of Dancing as dancers achieve outstanding results at two major competitions, with 13 qualifying for the ASSA National Championships.
The dancers of Natasha Academy of Dancing have had a busy and successful season, shining brightly in two major competitions.
Their journey began at the DANCE International Awards, held from June 14 to 19, where the academy entered 30 routines and achieved exceptional results. Dancers received four ultimate gold awards (95% and up), four gold awards (90–94%), and 12 high silver awards (84–89%), along with three special awards from an American judge.
“It was very special to receive awards from international judges,” said Natasha Ehlers, owner and coach at the academy, reflecting on the significance of this competition for the dancers. With large, highly competitive sections, the academy also secured nine top 5 overall placings, showcasing the depth of talent.
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A special highlight was the youngest competitor, Abigail Schulze, who won first place overall in the novice six years and under category for her solo dance, bringing pride to the team and setting the tone for the competition season.
Building on this momentum, the dancers moved on to their next challenge: The ASSA Acrobaticsport Gauteng Inter-District Championships, held from June 16 to 20. This was the critical third round of the acrobatic competition season, where only the top 10 dancers per level and age group qualified for the prestigious ASSA National Championships.
“It’s a very stressful and nerve-wracking competition for these dancers, because everyone there is truly excellent,” said Ehlers. “They have worked so hard to secure their spots on the SA national team, and to see 13 of our acrobats qualify is such a proud moment for our studio.”
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The championships saw 22 academy dancers competing from level 1 to elite advanced, in highly competitive sections, with dancers aiming for their place on the national team and to earn their Gauteng provincial colours.
“We’re incredibly excited for the team as they prepare for nationals. Their dedication, resilience, and passion for acro sport truly shine through, and we are so proud of how they represented the academy and themselves.” Special congratulations to Leigh Snodgrass (level 3, 10 and under) and Milan du Plessis (level 5, 11–13 years) for achieving first place overall in their categories.
With nationals taking place from July 15 to 19, the dancers are ready to take the stage, representing their studio and Gauteng with pride, skill, and the determination that has brought them this far.
Results from the ASSA Gauteng Inter-District Championships, with 22 dancers competing:
- 2 x 1st places.
- 4 x 2nd places.
- 4 x 3rd places.
- 2 x 4th places.
- 1 x 5th place.
- 2 x 6th places.
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