Lucy wins Genee Dance challenge

South Queensferry student Lucy Hutton won the Level 3 category of the Royal Academy of Dance 'Genee Dance Challenge'.

Lucy (11) was invited to take part at the last minute, and with only 4 rehearsals to choreograph and rehearse her solo, she travelled to Birmingham to compete in the Level 3 category open to students from across the UK in Intermediate Foundation - Intermediate ballet grades and under 15 years old.

The Genee Challenge Competition

The RAD national competition gives young dance students the opportunity to explore creativity, perform in front of an audience and receive coaching and constructive feedback. Over the 2 day event, she had ballet classes with Royal Academy of Dance teacher Jill Firth, a music workshop, coaching on her solo, dress rehearsal, and a chance to meet a professional dancer fom the Birmingham Royal Ballet. The final performance was in front of an audience of parents and dance teachers and judged by Lynn Wallis, Artistic Director of the RAD.

Although she was the youngest in her group, Lucy gained the most points from judge Lynn Wallis and won a trip to London with a ballet masterclass. She follows in the footsteps of CSBS student Natasha Watson who won the competition in 2010. (Lucy pictured above with Jill Firth and Lynn Wallis)

A full list of winners from the Birmingham heat is available on the RAD website.

Well done Lucy, we are all very proud of you!