Reach for the Stars is a comprehensive dance competition aimed at inspiring South African dancers in numerous styles, allowing young people to reach for the stars and ultimately boosting their profiles on national and international dance stages. This premier dance event supports the Institute of Applied Alchemy (IAA) that supports catalytics for positive change, and Digily Angus, a renowned dancer, choreographer and stagecraft expert.
South Africa, ages 8-35, are looking for a platform to showcase their incredible dance talent. This premier dance competition is intended to celebrate the country's diverse dance talents, as video submission deadlines are open until April 11, 2025.
From modern and hip hop to jazz and traditional, Reach for the Stars participants can compete in solo and group formats in any dance style that is skilled or trained in a variety of age groups. The competition begins with video submissions and qualifying hosted in the Western Cape and Central Karu, followed by a two-day finale in October. The overall winner of the award will walk away in cash at R20 000 to win their first Reach for the Stars title.
“As we reach the stars, we believe in pushing artistic boundaries and cultivating talent at both local and international stages,” says Desiree Angus. “For over 50 years, my passion has been to encourage dancers to grow, express and excel. Making them flourish is the greatest reward, and this platform is dedicated to increasing their artistry beyond their limits.”
“We are pleased to announce that we are committed to providing a range of services and services to our customers,” said Chantel Oppelt, Executive Director of IAA. “The transformative nature of the Reach for the Stars Dance competition allows dancers to transcend and silence the voices of external limitations, and communicate through their art to the magnitude and magic of who they truly are.”
The way competition works
No matter your style of dance, if you're interested in honing and introducing your dance talent, take part in the Reach for the Stars competition!
Part 1: Submit
Submissions will be open until April 11, 2025, and dancers will be called to send videos within a minute via the Reach for the Stars website www.reachforthestars.africa. Competition organizers will also visit selected schools in the Western Cape and Central Karu from February to March 2025 to showcase the Reach for the Stars competition. Reach for the Stars will hold a gala event in April 2025 and announce the host school for the Dance qualifying round.
Part 2: Register
All approved submissions will then be called to register for the competition from May 1-15, 2025. This includes payment for registration forms, compensation forms and competitive registrations.
Part 3: Qualifications
Reach for the Stars will host qualifiers for the Western Cape and Central Karu region from June to July 2025. The top two contestants in each age group and immigration category will be selected by a panel of judges. There are also two “Shooting Stars” finalists, selected by age group and entry category.
Part 4: Finale
In October 2025, Reach for the Stars will host a finale in Cape Town, where finalists compete for exciting prizes. All semi-finalists from various qualifiers compete for first place and R10 000 prizes in each age group, both in the solo and group categories. All winners will then become finalists and compete for the entire title and R20 000 prize on the second day.
Age group
Junior: 8-12 years
Youth: 13-17 years old
Seniors: 18-35 years
Entry section
solo
Duo | Trio | Quartet or Minimum Group. of 6
Benefits of Star Reach
Dancers are encouraged to push up creative boundaries. Dancers of all backgrounds and genres are given space to perform. This event will promote a supportive environment for growth. This is a safe space for dancers to experiment, hone their skills and discover their own “voices.” Competition rekindles sparks of creativity and self-expression.
In addition to the winner's cash awards, there are also unique elements as part of the award. This competition will spark a “Stars Access Fund reach.” This will bring financial benefits to marginalized dancers by helping them gain more dance training and exposure.
Partnership Opportunities
Reach for the Stars is proudly sponsored by a premium brand that shares its commitment to empowering young people through the arts. There are many great partnership opportunities where innovative brands ignite their passion for artistic expression that lasts for life.
This competition is structured as a franchise model in which other countries purchase based on appeal to fuse the development of young talent with their identification with economic advancement.
For more information about Reach for the Stars competition or partnership opportunities, contact Chantel@appliedalchemy.online or Desiree Angus at desire@reachforthestars.africa.
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