Tauranga-based Space Studios is preparing to take the stage at the World Dance Crew Championship (WDCC) from 13-19th April, competing against the best in New Zealand – and the world. Under the expert guidance of Director and Key Choreographer Cameron Smith, Space Studios has achieved remarkable success on both national and international stages, highlighted by their medal-winning performances at the World Hip Hop Dance Championship.
This year, Space Studios has prioritised WDCC over other competitions and the rising powerhouse is eager to showcase the depth of talent coming from Tauranga’s dance scene in Auckland.
The WDCC is the largest event of its kind, bringing together elite dance crews from around the globe, including Japan, Australia, the Philippines, and the United States. For Space Studios, this is an incredible opportunity to represent Tauranga on the world stage, competing alongside some of the most recognised names in dance, including New Zealand’s award-winning IDCO, led by Joshua Cesan, and the globally renowned Royal Family, founded by acclaimed choreographer Parris Goebel.
Beyond the competitive studio crews, WDCC also includes the College Dance Crew Championship (CDCC), which will see high school dance crews from around the country take to the stage. CDCC offers students the opportunity to earn NCEA credits while developing their craft, with the chance to be coached directly by members of The Royal Family – one of the most influential dance collectives in the world.
Dance is one of New Zealand’s most popular physical activities, ranking among the top 25 activities for young New Zealanders, with 13% of those aged 5–17 participating in styles such as ballet, hip-hop, and contemporary dance. DANZ (Dance Aotearoa New Zealand) estimates that more than 630,000 New Zealanders dance regularly – surpassing rugby and netball combined. And it’s not just young people; 22% of adults aged 18 and over engage in dance for physical wellbeing. WDCC will include Junior, Youth, and Adult divisions, as well as Super Crew divisions, where up to 40 dancers can be on stage at one time.
For Space Studios, competing at WDCC is a chance to demonstrate the incredible talent that exists in Tauranga’s dance community. Event Director Bayon Kim emphasises the importance of this event: “The international success of some of our dance teams, including The Royal Family and Parris Goebel herself, shows the potential of a career in dance today.
Dance is one of the fastest-growing industries globally. It’s important to see this type of success, particularly for our youth, in a world where career paths are no longer linear. New Zealand’s dance community is known around the world – we’re excited for New Zealanders to find out why.”
Cameron Smith, Director of Space Studios, shares his excitement for the event: “This is an incredible opportunity for our dancers to compete on home soil alongside the best in the world. It’s not every day that young dancers from Tauranga get the chance to represent their hometown at an international-level competition like this. We’re incredibly proud to be part of WDCC and to showcase the talent coming out of Space Studios.”
The World Dance Crew Championship will be held at the Due Drop Events Centre in Manukau from April 13–19. Throughout the week, dancers will compete in divisions including Junior (under 12), Youth (13–17), Adult (18+), and Super Crew. Workshops will offer attendees the chance to participate and learn from elite dancers. The College Dance Crew Championship will take place on Friday, 18th April, with the World Dance Crew Championship Finals happening on Saturday, 19th April.
Tickets are on sale now, starting from $15.
Main Photo: Space Studio’s Youth Super Crew PROTEAM
