Six Sabah dancers head to Spain for Dance World Cup
KOTA KINABALU (July 1): Six young dancers from Sabah-based dance studio Ballet by Nora will represent Malaysia at the prestigious Dance World Cup 2025 Grand Finals in Burgos, Spain from July 3-12.
They will join hundreds of Malaysian participants from across the country in one of the largest international youth dance competitions, featuring over 120,000 dancers from more than 60 countries.
The dancers' departure on Monday, despite with no formal sending off, was a momentous occasion, marking the culmination of years of dedication, training and perseverance.
For the young performers and their families, it represents not only a competitive milestone but also a celebration of cultural heritage and personal growth.
Competing across a range of categories including classical ballet solos, duets and group pieces, the Ballet by Nora will also bring traditional Malaysian dance to the global spotlight.
A highlight of their repertoire includes the celebrated piece 'Kreasi Zapin Galit', which blends classical training with Malaysian folklore and storytelling.
'This is more than just a competition. It's a platform to present our identity, artistry and resilience to the world,' said the manager and the team lead Nora Ridzuan in a statement.
The dancers representing Malaysia from Ballet by Nora are Tiara Izz Zayan, 11, Ivana Iman Mohammad Ezral, 10, Ashlyn Chong, 12, Faith Kennedy, 13, Shanelle Santani, 13, and Adrea Yu, 15.
During their time in Spain, the young dancers will also take part in cultural exchange activities. They are carrying Malaysian flag pins to exchange with international peers, a small gesture of friendship and pride in their homeland.
'Dance opens doors beyond the studio. It teaches diplomacy, respect and unity,' said Nora.
Meanwhile, the journey to the world stage would not be possible without the generous support of various government officials, agencies, and sponsors who believe in empowering Malaysia's next generation of artists.
Ballet by Nora extends heartfelt thanks to the various government leaders who include Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey G. Kitingan, Datuk Ewon Benedick, Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali, Datuk James Ratib, Datuk Matbali Haji Musah, Datuk Chan Foong Hin, Datuk Mustapha @ Mohd Yunus Sakmud and Datuk Ghulam Haidar Khan Bahadar.
The studio also expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah, Tanjung Aru Eco Development, UNIQLO Malaysia and IEC Art Foundation.
Ballet by Nora is a Sabah-based dance studio dedicated to fostering artistic excellence while nurturing confidence, expression and cultural appreciation among young dancers.
This marks the studio's second consecutive year representing Malaysia at the Dance World Cup.
As the team heads to Spain, they carry not just choreography and costumes, but the hopes and pride of a nation behind them.
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