Havant & South Downs College students compete in Springboard Dance Competition

Havant & South Downs College dance students took to the stage alongside performers from local schools as part of the Springboard Dance Competition.

Set up to celebrate talent in the local area, the competition was judged by Adam Jenkins, Production Show Manager at Carnival UK, at the South Downs Campus Theatre.

The competition included dancers from a number of schools from the surrounding area, such as Purbrook Park School, Mayfield and Oaklands Catholic School, as well students from dance company, Jade Avril Dance. Havant & South Downs College dance students also showcased their own work.

Dance lecturer Sarah Parsons said: “We organised this event to showcase our local talent. We think it is important to network with our local schools and support their success in their dance departments.”

Dance lecturer Andie Poulaki said: “This is an amazing opportunity to provide a performance platform for our own students, outside of their regular course. As well as this, they have had the experience of being judged by a cruise ship professional.”

After an evening of impressive routines, Oaklands Catholic School took top spot in the under 16’s category, shortly followed by Purbrook Park School, whilst Havant & South Downs College students secured first prize in the over 16’s. Winners received £15 Love2shop vouchers and a certificate.

Speaking about the competition, Molly Bryant said: “The competition was held to showcase and celebrate dance. Our dancers from HSDC performed a variety of dance styles, for instance I did tap but there was also contemporary, commercial and jazz.

“It was nice to see the schools perform and see their styles of dancing and their choreography. If I was to give advice to future HSDC dance students I would say just enjoy it!

“It was really good being judged by someone from Carnival, he told us a lot about the industry as well which was really useful.”