Watch: St Dominic’s tap dancing star shines bright in Germany
Madeline started dancing at the age of three and had her first tap dance lesson at the age of five.
A multi-talented, bright-eyed Grade 10 star from St Dominic’s, Madeline Scrase (15) is achieving greatness and pursuing her passion for dancing and music.
From November 26 to December 3 last year, Madeline represented South Africa at the IDO Tap World Championships in Riesa, Germany.
She took part in the championships along with her South African teammates, and her younger brother Luke (11) was also a contestant.
It was the third time that Madeline has represented her country at this event.
“The standard was unbelievably high and Madeline danced beautifully,” said Sharon Fitzgerald, principal of the high school department of St Dominic’s.
“She came ninth (out of a group of 36) for her solo, reaching the semi-finals.
“Her trio placed 16th, small group placed 11th and the national formation came 16th.”
Her plan for 2018 is to focus completely on her dancing, return to the championships and go for gold.
“I’m going to keep going, keep persevering until I get it,” said Madeline.
The talented youngster also plays the piano, and describes herself as someone who was born for the stage and for performing.
“I’d love to teach dancing one day and specialise in tap. Ever since I went to that first tap class, I knew this was for me,” said Madeline.
It is clear that she is driven and disciplined in her dancing.
“I practise on my own for an hour every day, I do extra gym work for half an hour to keep my strength up, and I have technical classes with my coach four times a week.”
Madeline’s family supports her every step of the way.
“My mom drives me back and forth to all the lessons, she is always there, my dad sits at the shows with his laptop and even tries to help with the make-up, and I don’t know what I will do without my little brother; he is very involved.”
This dancer is an example of hard work and determination, an inspiration to all the young people in our community on how to believe in themselves and follow their dreams.
“There is always tomorrow. If you set your mind to something, nothing is impossible,” said Madeline.
