FAPA USVI DANCE TEAM Heads to Nationals in July

Tradewinds staff
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Under the direction of Lea Scott, 10 students ages 5-16 from FAPA USVI DANCE ACADEMY competed in master dance classes in Tysons Corner, VA, March 21-25 with a National Dance Organization called Artistic Dance Exchange and for the first time ever are headed to Nationals.

FAPA USVI DANCE ACADEMY team. Back left: Jahniya Joseph, Back middle: Aysia Frett, Back right: Demiah Philip Center left: Annabel Boschulte, Center right (arms raised): Ja’Nae Mells, Center left (arms raised): Nubia Richards, Center right: Azalea Pearsall, Front left: Kaileigh Elshabazz, Front: right Semaj Dowe (Submitted photo)

FAPA USVI DANCE TEAM did not come away empty-handed from the competition. The team took first place in Top Overall Solo in Mini Beginners—Intermediate, awarded to Azalea Pearsall, and Best in Show—Mini Beginners—Intermediate Contemporary Choreography, awarded to Lea Scott, according to the press release.

Azalea Pearsall, Choreography by Lea Scott “Lose Control “ wins first place Top Overall Solo Mini Beginner-Intermediate level
HIGH GOLD. (Submitted photo)

Team members Azalea Pearsall and Demiah Philip were awarded national scholarships, and the High Gold Award went to Azalea Pearsall, Aysia Frett, and Teagan Campbell, the press release stated.

Aysia Frett, Choreography by Lea Scott “Lo Mismo” wins HIGH GOLD. (Submitted photo)

 

Due to the high title of awards, the FAPA USVI DANCE TEAM, for the first time ever, has been invited by Artistic Dance Exchange to Nationals in Orlando, FL, July 6-12. FAPA USVI DANCE TEAM will compete and take part in a variety of master classes by renowned dance instructors, institutions, and scouting agencies, the release stated.

Teagan Campbell, Choreography by Laurence Paquin “Side Effects” wins HIGH GOLD. (Submitted photo)

At Nationals, the USVI team will compete in front of movie producers, musicians, renowned dance institutions, professional dance teachers, and colleges who will also instruct, interact, and provide student scholarships. Students will receive professional and vital information, unique memorabilia, achievement awards, and certification of completion, according to the release.

Mini Beginner Division Ages 4-8 From left, Nubia Richards, Semaj Dowe and Kaileigh Elshabazz (Submitted photo)

Throughout the months of April, May and June, the dance team is planning to host several dance fundraisers. Funds raised will cover the cost of travel to Nationals along with dance fees. At these events, students will have a product sale and perform routines for the local community and tourists in the downtown area, it said.

From left, Director Lea Scott, Azalea Pearsall and Laurence Paquin represent the USVI. (Submitted photo)

FAPA USVI DANCE TEAM is also looking for sponsors. Any company that is interested in being an official event sponsor, please contact Director Lea Scott at 340-626-1545.

FAPA and ADE Participants

Students:

Azalea Pearsall (age 9)

Demiah Philip (age 11)

Aysia Frett (age 16)

Teagan Campbell (age 16)

Jahniya Joseph (age 11)

Annabel Boschulte (age 9)

Ja’Nae Mells (age 7)

Kaileigh Elshabazz (age 5)

Nubia Richards (age 7)

Semaj Dowe (age 6)

Teachers:

Lea Scott

Laurence Paquin

Mi’kaylah Thomas

Samantha Titmus

Parents:

Natacha Belvu

Shanique Boschulte

Jacki Campbell

James Dowe

Shani Smith

Ayisha Frett

Liza Lord

Yvonne Phipps

Veda Richards

Eustacia Steinbergen

At FAPA USVI DANCE ACADEMY & The French Ballet Theatre Inc., we’ve served the youth of the Virgin Islands in our community for over 30 years. Our mission is to Expand & Enhance the knowledge of Gymnastics, Dance & Performing Arts to the youth of the U.S. Virgin Islands. To make a difference in our community, taking our local talents on a global stage while representing our paradise The US Virgin Islands.