Glengormley girl Phoebe (8) wins top 10 spot at Dance World Cup in Dublin
A Glengormley schoolgirl is celebrating after landing a top 10 spot in ballet during the Dance World Cup.
Phoebe Shephard (8) represented Northern Ireland during the event at the Convention Centre, Dublin from July 8-18.
The competition welcomed dancers from more than 70 countries around the world, including the UAE, Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea, South Africa and many European nations, making it one of the world's largest and most prestigious dance competitions.
The standard was exceptionally high, with just 4.7 percent separating first place from eighth place in Phoebe's Mini Ballet category.
Competing at the Dance World Cup was “such a fun experience” for the local schoolgirl. “The dancers from all the other countries were so kind and friendly,” Phoebe added. “My favourite part was performing on stage and being able to express myself through dance. I made lots of lovely memories and can't wait to do it all again."
Meanwhile, watching Phoebe represent Northern Ireland at the Dance World Cup was a truly special moment for her family, who said: “We are incredibly proud of her dedication, hard work and passion for dance. Seeing all the hours of training and commitment rewarded on such an international stage was very emotional, and we couldn't be prouder of everything she has achieved."
Phoebe trains at the Judith Keyes School of Ballet, based in the heart of Glengormley. “Watching her progress from a tiny two-year-old in our Baby Ballet classes to representing Northern Ireland on the world stage at just eight years old has been incredibly special,” said her teacher, Judith.
“Phoebe is not only a beautiful dancer but also a wonderful young person. She is incredibly level-headed and takes everything in her stride. She never makes a fuss, quietly gets on with her training and is always willing to learn.
“Everyone at the Judith Keyes School of Ballet is immensely proud of Phoebe. Her journey from our Baby Ballet classes to the international stage is an inspiration to our younger dancers, and we look forward to supporting her as she continues her dance journey. We are already excited for next year's Dance World Cup in Lisbon.”