HIGHLIGHTS

Dance X Diaries: Making a Mark on Xavier's 50th Year
Brent Chua, Dance X Co-Captain and Kevin Chan, Dance X Captain

Posted Saturday, 06-Jan-2007 8:31 AM

      The Skechers Streetdance Battle Year 2 is one of the most prestigious street dance competitions in the Philippines. It started with about 30 high schools and 30 colleges competing for a slot in the final round and after the eliminations, only 26 schools advanced to the finals, which was held on December 2, 2006 at the Araneta Coliseum. No seat in the Big Dome was left unoccupied with so many people wanting to cheer for their respective schools that night. 

      After much hard work and a lot of waiting, Dance X, having made it through the eliminations held last October 13, 2006 at SM Southmall, finally stood tall and proud as they stared in awe at the massive venue in which they were to execute their ecstatic and powerful routine. Even before the competition began that day, each member of Dance X could already feel the mix of intensity and anxiety rushing through his veins. The weeks of practice may seem to have worn them out, but they were ready for battle.

      Night came and so did the excitement. The Big Dome was full house. The hosts stood on stage and Dance X, seated by the right side and in front, waited nervously for their turn. At last, after  seeing many dance troupes perform shockingly amazing performances, it was their time to shine.

      Undoubtedly, Dance X, as soon as they performed, already won the hearts of many with their astonishing and remarkable jaw-dropping and intense routine. Their energy was to die for and their passion was steadfast all throughout the performance. Many succeeding groups performed but they, along with those who performed beforehand, were helpless to the flawless and powerful arsenal Dance X had up their sleeves. The whole of Araneta screamed and cheered for Dance X and not a single jeer or expression of discontent was heard.

      Instead of exhaustion, Dance X actually felt more energetic after their dance. They even wanted to perform again. That is the passion they have for the dance. Passion stayed in their hearts all through the night. Before the winners of the competitions were announced, two other contests had been participated by two individuals from Dance X. Proudly, Raynard Yu and JC Genato, bagged awards. Among high school and college students who participated, Raynard Yu won the Skechers’ Street Style Award for possessing the best “street fashion and look.” JC, on the other hand, bagged the Skechers’ Freestyle Award, an award given to the dancer who could best execute his set of moves given 30 seconds for their solo. JC’s immense flip right off the stage conquered the audience who nearly fainted from admiration. Ultimately, even the judges could not help but be awed by this young Xavier performer, who obviously outdid his competitors from both high school and college levels..

      Then came the scary part – the answer to the question: “Who will be this year’s Skechers’ Streetdance Champions?” As the judges were about to announce the winners, silence dominated the venue. The silent atmosphere added to the overall suspense of the surroundings ang once again, Dance X, with their hands clasped together and their sweat dripping, huddled in prayer in their seats. Without any word from the host yet, some members already had tears streaming down their faces. First to be announced was the second runner up for the high school leg, then followed by the first runner up. No word relating to Xavier was said and Dance X was still in prayer. Second to be announced were the third and second place winners for the college division.

      Finally, the announcing of the Skechers’ Streetdance Champion for the high school division came. With much enthusiasm, the main host of the evening said: “This year’s high school championship goes to… And I want you all to scream it with me… The NEW Skechers’ Streetdance champion high school division is…XAVIER SCHOOL!” Both the crowd and Dance X screamed, cried, and cheered altogether in one chorus. Never did noise and shouting sound so beautiful till that evening.

      That is how the epic story of Dance X and its winning glory unfolded. But again, the story doesn’t end here. As long as God permits, and Dance X is still alive, so too will their dancing go on and on along with the individuals who make up the team. Dance X will always remember that unforgettable night, and they will never forget God and the people who supported them all the way.

      Luceat Lux!

Skechers Street Dance Competition Photo Gallery

Watch the winning dance here!

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