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Associated Press
3 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Xcel Talent Launches Dance Convention at DansMusik Fest in Albania, Auditioning European Dancers for U.S. Representation
VLORE, GA, ALBANIA, May 30, 2025 / / -- Xcel Talent Agency, a leading boutique agency renowned for representing top-tier dancers, choreographers, and actors, is set to elevate the global dance scene with the launch of a new dance convention at the highly anticipated DansMusik Fest 2025 in Vlorë, Albania. This exciting initiative, announced by agency founder Aris Golemi, aims to bridge European talent with opportunities in the U.S. entertainment industry through auditions, master classes, and performances, solidifying Vlorë's emerging status as 'The City of Dance ' from August 18-23, 2025. A New Chapter for DansMusik Fest Following the resounding success of the inaugural DansMusik Fest in 2024, which drew over 25,000 attendees to witness a headline performance by world-renowned DJ Steve Aoki, Xcel Talent Agency is expanding the festival's scope to include a comprehensive dance convention. The 2024 event, co-organized with Kuadr Events, transformed Vlorë's Lungomare into a vibrant celebration of music and dance, boosting local tourism and establishing the city as an emerging cultural hub. Building on this momentum, the 2025 edition will feature a week-long program of pop-up performances, spontaneous dance battles, live music, and now, a dedicated dance convention designed to spotlight and nurture talent. The convention, a first for DansMusik Fest, will offer European dancers a unique platform to showcase their skills through workshops led by top choreographers, master classes, and exclusive auditions for representation by Xcel Talent Agency in the U.S. market. 'DansMusik Fest is more than a festival—it's a movement to empower artists and foster cultural exchange,' said Aris Golemi, whose vision for Xcel International continues to redefine the entertainment landscape. Auditioning European Dancers for U.S. Representation A cornerstone of the new dance convention is Xcel Talent Agency's auditions, specifically targeting European dancers seeking representation in the U.S. Xcel, known for its rigorous standards and mentorship approach, represents talent for high-profile projects, including music videos, films, television, commercials, and live performances for artists like Beyoncé, Usher, Lady Gaga, Kendrick Lamar, Pitbull, and events such as the Oscars and Grammy Awards. The auditions will focus on a variety of dance styles, including contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, and more, welcoming dancers aged 13 and up from all ethnicities. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to join Xcel's roster, gaining access to the agency's extensive industry connections and personalized career guidance. 'We're looking for dancers who embody passion, professionalism, and a strong work ethic,' Golemi emphasized. 'Our goal is to connect Europe's brightest talents with opportunities to thrive on the global stage.' This initiative aligns with Xcel's mission to discover and nurture the next generation of stars, offering European dancers a rare chance to break into the competitive U.S. market. The agency's strategic partnership with other agencies further amplifies its ability to open doors for its clients across major markets like Atlanta, Los Angeles, New York, and Nashville. A Week of Dance and Cultural Exchange The dance convention at DansMusik Fest 2025 will be a dynamic addition to the festival's lineup, featuring master classes led by internationally acclaimed choreographers, workshops to refine technique, and opportunities for dancers to network with industry professionals. The event will also include pop-up performances and dance battles along Vlorë's scenic Lungomare, creating an immersive experience that celebrates the fusion of dance, music, and Albanian culture. 'Vlorë's rich cultural heritage and vibrant energy make it the perfect backdrop for this convention,' Golemi noted. 'We want dancers to leave inspired, empowered, and connected to a global community of creators.' The convention will also foster cultural exchange, with international artists and attendees collaborating to create memorable performances that highlight Vlorë's growing reputation as a cultural destination. Economic and Cultural Impact The addition of the dance convention is expected to further amplify the economic benefits seen during the 2024 festival, which saw sold-out accommodations and increased patronage for local businesses. By attracting dancers, choreographers, and industry professionals from across Europe and beyond, DansMusik Fest 2025 aims to position Vlorë as a must-visit destination for dance enthusiasts and tourists alike. A Vision for the Future Under Aris Golemi's leadership, Xcel Talent Agency continues to push boundaries in the entertainment industry. A former dancer and choreographer with a Bachelor's Degree in Choreography from the Academy of Fine Arts in Tirana, Golemi's achievements have earned him recognition as one of the top dance agents in US. His agency's boutique approach, emphasizing quality and mentorship, has made it a trusted name for artists worldwide. The launch of the dance convention at DansMusik Fest marks a bold step in Xcel's mission to empower artists and redefine global entertainment. As Vlorë prepares to become 'The City of Dance' in August 2025, dancers across Europe have a unique opportunity to take their careers to new heights with Xcel Talent Agency. For more information about DansMusik Fest and the dance convention, including audition details, visit For inquiries about Xcel Talent Agency and representation opportunities, visit Aris Golemi XCEL TALENT AGENCY +1 4045144258 email us here Visit us on social media: Instagram Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Perth Now
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Perth Now
REVEALED: Will ‘world's wettest party' be coming to Perth?
A music event that claims to be the world's wettest party has hit a dry patch in WA. Tang Events had sought support from the City of Perth to bring the S2O Songkran Music Festival to WA. It plans to hold the festival at Langley Park in February and expects 22,500 people to attend at $165 a ticket. Your local paper, whenever you want it. It sought $24,000 in cash and $46,000 in-kind from the city, but the council unanimously voted at Tuesday night's meeting that the city not come to the party. Tang Events' application said S2O Australia was an electronic dance music festival that blended 'high-energy performances with immersive water-play innovations to create visually striking and euphoric experiences'. It originated in Thailand and has held events in Bangkok, China, Tokyo, and, most recently, New York. Tang Events said the Perth event would be the 'flagship show' and reinforce its position on the international festival circuit. Steve Aoki has been touted as one of the performing DJs. Credit: steveaoki Instagram Features of the Perth show would include a line-up of 'globally renowned artists with water-play technology, high powered water cannons and synchronised water effects'. Glenn Watson, speaking on behalf of Tang Events, told the city's briefing session on May 20 the event would have exclusive Asia-Pacific performances by DJs such as Steve Aoki. 'The exclusivity was designed to increase both interstate and international visitation to Perth for the event, in the same way that you might remember Coldplay coming to Perth last year; it was an exclusive nationwide event,' he said. 'The key point of difference for S2O is that it's a contemporary interpretation of Songkran, the Thai New Year's festival, also known as the Water Festival. 'In addition to the world-class DJs and performances that you'd expect at a music festival, patrons that choose to go into the wet zone are basically bombarded with water from jets and cannons. Crowds at the festival would be 'bombarded' with water. Credit: 'This type of event has not been done in Perth or in a developed Western capital city that has a lot more regulations and rules than you'd see in a Thailand-style music festival.' However, the city's assessment panel — comprising three staff — gave the proposal a score of only 57.8 out of 100, saying the attendance estimate relied too heavily on interstate and international attendees, and the event would be held in an already busy period. Its use of water was also considered problematic. 'The excessive use of water during the summer months could be viewed unfavourably by the community and contribute to brand alignment concerns and reputation risk for the city,' the assessment said. 'The panel acknowledged whilst the applicant has engaged a local water management company to facilitate the development and implementation of a water management and sustainability plan for the event, a robust plan is yet to be developed.' Mr Watson said Tang Events was working with Perth-based water management organisation BD Water on management plans. 'We acknowledge the details about the water management and sustainability was not too granular. The purpose of that was to open up a conversation and a dialogue with the city to make sure that it could be done,' he said. The Perth S2O festival was expected to bring in 22,500 people. Credit: He said water would be brought in in tanks, and a flooring system that included drainage was being developed to capture water after it was used. 'Approximately 30 per cent of the water would be captured and be able to be re-used or recycled,' Mr Watson said. Eight other sponsorship applications were approved, including $54,000 for the Laneway Festival Perth 2026, $120,000 cash and $14,000 in-kind for the Channel 7 Christmas Pageant, and $85,000 for the Perth Chinese New Year Fair 2026. A council report said events helped make Perth a 'vibrant and iconic destination'. The city has $1 million set aside in its 2025-26 event sponsorship program.
News18
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
BTS's Mic Drop Crosses 1.5 Billion Views, Proving Their Reign Is Far From Over
Last Updated: Prior to Mic Drop, the boy band's music videos like Boy With Luv, Dynamite and DNA also achieved the milestone on YouTube. In another feather to their musical cap, K-pop sensation BTS has raked in a new record by achieving 1.5 billion views on their popular music video MIC Drop (Steve Aoki Remix). As announced by BigHit Music on May 23, Mic Drop crossed the 1.5 billion mark on YouTube around 5 PM, making it the fourth music video from the group to achieve the milestone. Prior to that, other BTS songs like Boy With Luv, Dynamite, and DNA had collected 1.5 billion views on YouTube. The music video for MIC Drop (Steve Aoki Remix) was originally released on November 24, 2017, suggesting that it took over seven years, five months, and 20 days to reach the feat. Fans have been celebrating the same on social media, with many resharing clips from the MV across X and Instagram. 💥 @bts_bighit hit another major milestone!The "MIC Drop (Steve Aoki Remix)" MV has officially surpassed 1.5 billion views on YouTube as of Friday at 5:07 PM KST! 🎉This marks the group's 4th MV to reach the 1.5B club, following:🎆 'Dynamite" (heading for 2B)🌸 'Boy With Luv"… — KpopHerald (@Kpop_Herald) May 23, 2025 Mic Drop was remixed into the electro trap genre by world-renowned DJ Steve Aoki, as a part of BTS's mini album LOVE YOURSELF: Her. Upon its debut, the song not only entered at No. 28 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart but also maintained the position for the next 10 weeks, enjoying major global popularity. The music video features a unique and powerful sound, which is complemented further by visual styles. The artists also deliver their impeccable synchronised dancing skills in alternating settings. BTS MVs With Billion Views As of now, while Dynamite is now on its way to touch two billion views, Boy With Luv has over 1.8 billion views, and DNA has crossed 1.6 billion views. In the meantime, the boy band has about 40 music videos that have already crossed the billion-view mark. Apart from the aforementioned titles, they also have IDOL, FAKE LOVE, Butter, Blood Sweat & Tears in the list, followed by others like Dope, Fire, and Save Me with millions on YouTube. Even though BTS has been away from the musical scene for a long time, owing to the members' military service, the update shows their ever-growing fandom. Speaking of which, BTS is all set to reunite this year, with the remaining members set for their discharge in the coming months. The eldest members of the group, Jin and J-Hope, have already been discharged and have resumed normal activities. First Published:
USA Today
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Steve Aoki gives jiu-jitsu a try thanks to UFC star Diego Lopes
Steve Aoki gives jiu-jitsu a try thanks to UFC star Diego Lopes EDM star Steve Aoki has long been a fan of combat sports, but he recently hit the mats for a jiu-jitsu session for the first time ever – with a little assistance from UFC star Diego Lopes. "Now, I've got the excitement," Aoki said, after the session at the Iridium Sports Agency office gym. Lopes met Aoki at one of his concerts in Guadalajara, Mexico. The two have been friends since, and Aoki even did a custom mix of "La Chona" for Lopes' UFC 314 title challenge walkout in April. Aoki, 47, said the mindset he's drawn from watching fights might be the reason he's been able to maintain a rigorous tour schedule a decade-plus after his first Grammy nomination. "The resiliance, the training, the heart, the hard work," Aoki said. "You're putting your entire life in that octagon. That feeling of that moment is something that I love. You guys are putting your entire spirit in that octagon, and I know that. That's how I look at my life, my career, my shows, my music. I think that may be one of the reasons why I'm still able to tour, being able to make music, and people listen." In stepping outside of his comfort zone, Aoki thinks he may have unlocked a new version of himself. While the recent session was his first, it doesn't sound like it'll be his last. "I realize I know 0.0001 percent," Aoki said. "But what I did learn was the inspiration and excitement to now step through the door. I've always been kind of fearful of it. I've been scared of it. I like to watch it on TV. I like to watch my f*cking friends do it. Now, I'm ready. So Diego, it's all your fault."
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® ANNOUNCES 'ELECTRIFYING' GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP WITH E1 SERIES
BOMBAY SAPPHIRE invites the world to 'Step Into The Blue ™' as it joins E1, the world's first all-electric power boat racing Championship, as Official Gin Partner of the UIM E1 World Championship - a global spectacle backed by some of the biggest names in sport and entertainment HAMILTON, Bermuda, May 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® is stepping into the world of sports entertainment, announcing a new global partnership with E1 Series – the world's first all-electric race boat Championship that combines sports, entertainment and a respect for the world's 'natural blues.' The partnership sees BOMBAY SAPPHIRE become the Official Gin Partner of the UIM E1 World Championship. BOMBAY SAPPHIRE branding will appear across the Championship, with teams backed by some of the biggest names in sports and entertainment, including Marc Anthony, Steve Aoki, LeBron James, Virat Kohli, Rafa Nadal and Will Smith. In addition to the E1 Series global partnership, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE will also become Official Partners of current reigning champions Team Brady, owned by NFL legend Tom Brady, and Team Drogba, led by Didier Drogba and Gabrielle Lemaire, unlocking additional branding rights and team specific opportunities throughout the 2025 season. BOMBAY SAPPHIRE will also be the Official Cocktail of E1, serving up BOMBAY SAPPHIRE and tonics and BOMBAY SAPPHIRE Sparkling Lemon cocktails to invited guests of the Ocean Club, E1's exclusive hospitality offering. Set against the backdrop of some of the most iconic waters across the globe - including Lake Maggiore in Italy, Monaco, and Miami - the new partnership invites audiences into a world of multisensorial immersive experiences with BOMBAY SAPPHIRE and E1. The partnership is the first major activation from BOMBAY SAPPHIRE, since its just-launched Step Into The Blue, a new fully integrated global campaign that is being executed through-the-line. Step Into The Blue invites people to immerse themselves in a beautiful, blue world, and celebrates the brand's role in bringing the beauty of the moment to life. Natasha Curtin, Global VP at BOMBAY SAPPHIRE, comments: "This partnership between BOMBAY SAPPHIRE and E1 is a bold new chapter in our global journey - and brings our 'Step Into The Blue' campaign to life on an electrifying, international stage. We're proud to join forces with E1 to celebrate innovation, sustainability, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the world's most breathtaking natural blues - while marking our first ever foray into global sports entertainment. She continues: "Like BOMBAY SAPPHIRE, E1 is dedicated to inviting audiences to be part of immersive and inspiring moments - and unlocking a world of beautiful experiences that not only captivate but are also underpinned by a passion for showcasing the multisensorial beauty of the natural world." E1 is more than just racing – it is a new global sports platform fusing high-speed action with entertainment. As the sport expands globally to a seven-race calendar this year, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE will elevate the experience by collaborating with some of the world's leading bars and industry figures to create unique, immersive moments for guests — from culturally inspired brand experiences to signature serves including the iconic BOMBAY SAPPHIRE & Tonic and the refreshing BOMBAY SAPPHIRE Sparkling Lemon. What's more, each E1 team competes with one male and one female pilot who are drawn from the worlds of motorsport and power boat racing. Beyond the racing, teams actively engage with the local communities the series races in to promote efforts to regenerate the world's oceans and aquatic ecosystems. With E1 driving change in marine mobility and sustainability, the two partners are united by a shared passion for cherishing the beauty of the natural world. BOMBAY SAPPHIRE will become the Presenting Partner of the E1 Series Blue Impact Championship, designed to protect nature's natural blues, and heal water and local ecosystems where the championship takes place. Protecting the planet is also a priority for BOMBAY SAPPHIRE and has been for over 25 years. Crafted using a unique blend of 10 hand-selected botanicals from sustainably certified suppliers from around the world, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE is distilled at Laverstoke Mill in the south of England, using a signature vapour infusion process that gently extracts the botanicals' natural flavours, creating the vibrant and versatile taste that BOMBAY SAPPHIRE is known for. When it opened its doors in 2014, the distillery's design was awarded "Outstanding" by BREEAM®, one of the world's leading environmental assessments for buildings, and in 2023, the site achieved Wildlife Habitat Council certification, recognising efforts to support local wildlife and biodiversity. Rodi Basso, founder and CEO of E1, said: "Welcoming BOMBAY SAPPHIRE as a Championship partner solidifies E1's status as one of the most compelling opportunities in global sport and entertainment. With celebrity star power, highly competitive racing, and a purpose to accelerate change, we're the sport of tomorrow that innovative brands are backing today. "In E1, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE has found a natural home. It is a partnership that is built on a passion for blue sustainability and we're energised to deliver impactful change together as we redefine racing on water." For more information on the partnership and upcoming race events, visit or follow @BombaySapphire. For further information, please contact the BOMBAY SAPPHIRE global press office at Ogilvy bombaysapphireglobal@ Photo: View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE BOMBAY SAPPHIRE Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
