Isabella and Sophia van Tonder, two talented sisters from Brescia House School, recently achieved a significant milestone by representing South Africa at the prestigious American Dance Awards in Providence, Rhode Island, USA.
These young dancers, who began their journey at the tender age of four, have always had a natural love and talent for dance, and their recent accomplishment is a testament to their dedication and passion.
Both Isabella, a Grade 10 learner, and Sophia, in Grade 5, were thrilled to qualify for this international competition.
The excitement of representing their country was an overwhelming experience.
“As South Africans we are so passionate about our heritage, and we showed our fellow American judges the African flavour,” they exclaimed.
The preparation for the competition was intense, with the sisters training seven days a week, often in between their commitments to Jozi Youth Dance Company’s production of Giselle at the Roodepoort Theatre.
Despite the gruelling schedule, the hard work paid off. The sisters performed five group dances in the gala event, a proud moment as they brought their South African flair to the international stage.
“Having fellow South Africans, and even some Americans, cheering for us while on stage was a memorable highlight,” they shared.
Performing in front of an international audience and judges was nerve-wracking, but Isabella and Sophia managed to channel their nerves into delivering unforgettable performances.
Isabella, who favours ballet for its elegance and sophistication, and Sophia, who prefers contemporary for its emotional depth, both showcased their unique styles and strengths.
Balancing their schoolwork with their intense dance practice is challenging, especially with exams on the horizon, but the sisters manage to navigate it all.
Their favourite memory from the trip was the team bonding, and exploring the quaint university town of Rhode Island, which provided a vibrant backdrop to their unforgettable experience.
The Van Tonder sisters are grateful for the unwavering support from their family, friends, and school. Their mother, Chantal, accompanied them on the trip, providing much-needed support and, of course, spoiling them with American candy.
Looking ahead, Isabella and Sophia have their sights set on future competitions, including qualifying for the International Dance Organisation (IDO) and Global Dance Open (GDO) competitions, which could lead them to dance in Croatia in September 2025.
Their involvement with the Jozi Youth Dance Company has significantly influenced their growth as dancers, under the guidance of Jayd Swart, whom they admire deeply for her innovative choreography and passion for dance.
The sisters have undoubtedly made their mark on the international dance scene, and their journey is just beginning.
With more competitions on the horizon, and dreams of dancing on stages around the world, these sisters are poised to continue dazzling audiences and making South Africa proud.
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