M&M Dance Sensations recently participated in the Dance X Nationals at Grey College in Bloemfontein where they delivered outstanding perfromaces earning their national colours.

During the year, the dancers had five chances to qualify for the nationals. The pre-qualifying rounds were hosted in Johannesburg, Durban, Limpopo, Bloemfontein and Limpopo.

Out of more than 25 dancers from M&M who tried to qualify, only 14 including dance coach, Mignonette Kaliniwski were successful in going to the national stage.
The competition featured dancers from all over the country who showcased their talent.

“The challenging part was trying to get out of your own head; believing you are not good and feeling overwhelmed. The exciting and beautiful part was seeing the dancers enjoying themselves and giving it their all. proving to themselves that they deserved being there,” Mignonette explained.

She said their performance at the event has given the young stars the momentum to keep going.

“All of them want to tackle more competitions next year, to be even better and stronger. They have inspired their fellow dancers to work hard as well,” she said.

Mignonette believes in instilling confidence in her dancers by constantly reminding them of their abilities.

“I always give pep talks; I pray over them and ensure that they know their worth. Giving up is not an option, they always give your best and then let God do the rest,” she said proudly.

She added that most people view dance as a way to escape reality, to have fun or to learn.

“As a teacher, you need to be their escape route and inspiration. Never judge, give a listening ear, let your passion overflow onto them, make them laugh and most of all let them have fun while learning. Believe in yourself and never give up,” she said.

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The results:
• Mignonette Kalinowski and Michaela Venter – first place for Hip Hop duo
• Michaela Venter – second place for Hip Hop solo
• Milan Bond – 2nd place – Hip Hop Solo
• Amoné van den bergh – third place for Hip Hop solo
• Skyla Somers – first place for Hip Hop solo.
• Mianke van Heerden – second place for Hip Hop and energy solos.
• Kaytlyn Sauls – first place for energy solo and third place for Hip Hop solo.
• Dinieke Havenga – first place for Hip Hop Solo, second place for energy solo and third place for lyrical solo.
• Abby Wagener and Zanté de Necker – first place for energy duo
• Abby Wagener, Zanté de Necker & Jenna-Lea van der Walt – first place for open trio.
• Zanté de Necker – first place forHip Hop Solo and third place for lyrical.
• Mikayla Boshof and Chanté van der Merwe – second place for open Duo

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