Although this year marks the first time that Backstage Academy of Dance students have competed in the Rainbow National Dance Competition in Sacramento, audience members probably could not have guessed as the dancers stole the spotlight and secured a number of awards. 

“Their performance was amazing and they all went above and beyond my expectations with all of their dances,” said owner Kristi Rojas-Garcia. “Anytime they perform at events like this it is a success because they are constantly learning and bettering themselves.”

Approximately 20 of Backstage Academy of Dance’s performers with ages ranging from four to 16 years old traveled to Sacramento earlier this month for the national competition, where they competed in numerous groups, trio, duo, and solo routines over a three-day period. 

“This was you first year attending this particular competition,” said Rojas-Garcia. “I wanted to try a new competition for a different experience and it was highly recommended by some of my dance colleagues.”

A trio consisting of Carley Mendonca, Audrie Rios, and Norah Cook earned the highest overall score in their performance of “I’m Cute,” as well as a Double Platinum Award, in the Top Starz of Tomorrow Duet/Trio portion for performers eight years old and under. 

Norah Frank won fifth place and a Platinum Award for her performance of “This Girl Is On Fire” during the Top Starz of Tomorrow Solo portion of the competition, which encompassed performers ranging in age from nine to 11 years old.  

Backstage Academy of Dance also earned acclaim by winning a Double Platinum Award, High Gold, and Judge’s Choice for their performance of “Goddesses” choreographed by Keaton Garcia. Performers included Serena Anderson, Callie Pickering, Megan Speckman, Marina Sisneros, Leah Siegel, and Sarah Siegel.

This sampling of awards won during the competition was not the only aspect that benefitted dancers during the three-day event, as Rojas-Garcia reported that the competition also gave dancers an opportunity to meet new people, be inspired by other dancers, and gain valuable and constructive criticism from the professional judging staff.  

“All of this gives them tools to improve their routines and performance as well as build character and self-confidence,” said Rojas-Garcia. 

With the success from Sacramento still fresh in their minds, Backstage Academy of Dance performers now are looking forward to their annual studio recital in June. Soon after, dancers will travel to Las Vegas for the Encore Performing Arts competition, where they will compete with other top studios. 

“We are constantly challenging our students to be their best. We teach them technique, discipline, endurance and performance,” said Rojas-Garcia. “We prepare our students to compete at the next level in all styles of dance.”