Local learner shines at National Street Dancing Championships
For 2025, the Morningside-based learner hopes to make it to the finals in solos and at least the quarter-finals in battles on the world championship stages.
Making big dancing waves in the South African dance scene is what Ethan Harris, a Grade 6 learner at Redhill School is doing.
Earning top honours at the National Street Dancing Championships in Cape Town has been the highlight of his 2024 dance journey.
Read more: Local ballet dancer earns a distinction in Cecchetti Advanced 1 ballet exam
Ethan held his shine when competing in three categories, U13 Hip Hop Individuals, U13 Duos, and Junior U15 Hip Hop Breaking Battles.
He excelled, securing first place in the U13 category and second in the highly competitive U15 Battles.
He said his remarkable achievements have earned him the title of South Africa’s best male U13 Hip Hop dancer and an invitation to represent the country at the World Championships in Spain and England in 2025.
“I felt amazing winning the U13 category. It was my first time winning nationals, and I was a bit surprised especially because I was dancing with an injury. But I knew I had given it my all and was proud of what I did achieve.”
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Ethan highlighted that he was one of the youngest competitors in the U15 Battles, facing dancers up to three years older and he did not let nerves get the best of him.
“I initially wanted to drop out because I was nervous, but my mentor convinced me to keep going. I just focused on staying calm and giving it my best shot.”
He elaborated that preparing for the competition was a bit challenging for him.
“The hardest part was the commitment. No matter how tired I was, I had to make the practices a priority, even if it meant sacrificing my weekends.”
His hard work paid off when he and his partner reached the finals in the U13 Duos category, where they were the only boys to make it to the final eight.
For Ethan, the most rewarding aspect of his dance journey has been the recognition of his efforts.
“It feels amazing to be called South Africa’s best male dancer in the U13 Hip Hop category. All the hard work has finally paid off.”
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