In a radiant display of talent and artistry, Simone Tatyana Alyeshka Avisado of Ateneo de Davao University has claimed the coveted title of Junior Dance Overall Champion of the World at the World Championship of Performing Arts (WCOPA) 2023 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Orange County, Anaheim, California, USA.
The prestigious event, often dubbed the “Olympics of the Performing Arts,” saw participation from 34 countries, each showcasing their finest performers in various disciplines.
“Every person has an edge because we are all unique. For me, my edge was being able to discover my passion for dance at an early age (I started going to dance classes at the age of 2) and at the same time having the best support system that gave me the opportunity to access high-quality and world -class trainings,” Avisado proudly beamed.
Avisado’s remarkable achievements were a testament to her dedication, hard work, and undeniable passion for dance.
“Like any sport, you have to continuously perfect your craft through trainings and practices. I practiced almost every day with equally passionate coaches from our dance school, En Avant Dance and Arts Centre. With disciple, perseverance, and determination combined with the access to opportunities, we are all capable of greatness,” she added, crediting the people behind their success.
The promising dance sport enthusiast emphasized that the world brims with potential dancers, underscoring the need for unwavering support to unlock a world of opportunities for them.
“I want to say thank you to our Almighty Father in heaven for blessing me with this God-given talent. I also want to thank my family and friends for praying for me and supporting me. Lastly, I want to thank my dance school and my coaches for working with me in honing my craft. In comparison to other dance genres, Ballet is not as appealing to the younger generation as it was before. I advocate for children to learn ballet as it is indeed the best foundation to any dance. I dream of a day that the Philippines will be known for having world-class dancers. I hope that my journey in WCOPA 2023 will inspire young kids to discover their passions and realize their dreams. Success is within reach when one is given an opportunity, it only takes one helping hand to open the doors of fate. I pray that we have more supporters in the performing arts, I am certain that when the right talents are given they same access I was given, the world will be in awe of Pinoy talent,” Avisado added.
Her exceptional performance not only earned her the top honor but also a slew of other accolades that solidified her place among the world’s most outstanding young dancers.
Meanwhile, the equally competitive Jhanrill Greca Barcelona from Stockbridge International School Davao was Avisado’s partner in the Junior Dance Group champion of the world.
The Philippines’ pride not only bagged the JuniorDance Overall Champion of the World but also the following accolades; Junior Dance Group Overall Champion of the World 2023, Plaque-Champion of the World Division Winner for Overall Jazz category, Plaque-Champion of the World Division winner for overall Ballet category, Gold medal – finalist solo dance category and group dance category, Gold medal – ballet solo, Gold medal – jazz solo, Gold medal – ballet group, Gold medal – contemporary/modern group, Silver medal – semi-finalist dance category, and Bronze medal – contemporary/modern solo.
These outstanding achievements have brought immense pride to her university, her city and home country, showcasing her remarkable skill and dedication on the global stage.
By: Janice C. Abrea
