Crew SUAVE with one of New Zealand's leading Street Dance Choreographers Edward Jones Mikaere (Eru).
Crew SUAVE with one of New Zealand's leading Street Dance Choreographers Edward Jones Mikaere (Eru).
Some people think hip hop is like what we see in music videos and on American television, but executive director of Street Dance NZ Bev Adair-Beets says this isn't a true picture.
Bev is the main organiser of the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Street Dance NZ regional competition that is ontomorrow night at the Bethlehem Baptist Church. The national finals will be held in Auckland during the first weekend in May.
"Street Dance NZ, to me, has always been about our young people and their future. Dance is a great vehicle to reach our young people and their families," Bev says.
"It's about our core values of equipping, teaching, mentoring and doing well in life. It benefits our community and our nation when young people function to their potential."
There are nine dance crews confirmed for tomorrow's competition, and Bev believes there are exciting times ahead for street dance in the Bay. She says to especially look out for a new local dance crew called SUAVE.
Street Dance NZ's mission is to identify and nurture opportunities that empower young people. "That's our kaupapa," Bev says.
Hannah Ward is the new Street Dance NZ regional co-ordinator, and Bev says she is an exceptional person who has a passion for the young people of the Bay. She also praises the input of Edward Jones Mikaere (Eru), and calls him an amazing and inspiring choreographer.
IDentity Dance Crew, world silver medallists and New Zealand National Adult Hip Hop champions, U'Knights and Dujon Cullingford (DJ Stretchmark) will provide entertainment. Te Ahurei a Rangatahi will showcase live graffiti art during the afternoon.
"Come out and support your tamariki and rangatahi on Saturday. It's going to be awesome," Bev says.
What: HHI Street Dance NZ Waikato/BOP regional competition When: Saturday, March 22 Where: Bethlehem Baptist Church, 90 Bethlehem Rd Time: 6pm until about 9pm Entry: Under 13, $5; 14 and up, $15; family pass, $35.
