Dance is an artistic expression of the self, an incredible medium of exercise, and a fundamental part of South Africa’s cultural heritage.

Now, the country’s up-and-coming dancers will get the chance to showcase their talents in the 'Reach for the Stars' dance competition which was announced at a special reveal party on Friday, 26 July 2024 at the Clara Anna Fontein Lifestyle Centre in Durbanville, Western Cape.

This inclusive competition will celebrate a multitude of dance styles, from the grace of ballet to the electrifying energy of hip-hop with the qualifying rounds getting underway in May 2025. This premier South African event is a collaboration between the Institute for Applied Alchemy (IAA) which supports catalysts for positive change, and the event Founder, Desiree Angus.

For the past five decades, Desiree has been a force in the performing arts, boasting extensive experience as a dancer, choreographer, and stagecraft expert who fuels a holistic approach to artistic expression. Desiree's true passion lies in inspiring others - witnessing her students flourish on local and international stages fills her with immense pride.

Explaining the impetus behind this revolutionary dance competition, the visionary founder explains: "Reach for the Stars is designed to promote cultural expression, discover new and raw talents, and provide an inclusive platform for dancers and dance studios to compete, enhance their skills, and gain exposure. Our goal is to bring together dancers of all styles and genres, highlighting the richness and variety of South African dance.”

Chantel Oppelt, Executive Director of the IAA, said this was a chance to celebrate the rich tapestry of dance in all its forms: “Reach for the Stars will foster the artistic growth within our country and propel dancers beyond their comfort zones. It aligns with the IAA’s inside-out methodology which supports the creation of safe spaces where people can access the truth of who they are, become clear about how they use their talents, and use this to succeed while positively impacting the world around them. We’re proud to collaborate with the visionary Desiree Angus on this ground-breaking event.”

How the competition works If you’re interested in honing and showcasing your dance talent, no matter the form of dance, then enter the Reach for the Stars competition! Part 1: Qualifiers From May 2025, Reach for the Stars will be hosting the qualifiers over 5 days in Cape Town.

The top 3 contestants from each genre and age group will be selected by a panel of judges. Part 2: Finale In August 2025, Reach for the Stars will host a 3-day finale in Cape Town where finalists will compete for exciting prizes.

Benefits of Reach for the Stars

• Dancers are encouraged to push their creative boundaries.
• Dancers under the age of 25, of every background and genre are given a space to perform.
• The event fosters a supportive environment for growth.
• This is a safe space to experiment, refine skills, and discover your unique ‘voice’.
• The competition reignites the spark of creativity and self-expression.

In addition to the cash prizes for winners, there is also a unique element as part of the prize. The competition will give rise to a ‘Reach for the Stars Access Fund’ which will financially benefit marginalised dancers by assisting them to gain access to further training and exposure. Partnership Opportunities Reach for the Stars is proudly sponsored by premium brands that share a commitment to empowering youth through the arts.

There are many great partnership opportunities for innovative brands to ignite a passion for artistic expression that will last a lifetime. In addition, the competition is structured as a franchise model for other countries to purchase based on its appeal to merge identification with the development of talent and economic progression for youth.

To find out more about the Reach for the Stars competition or partnership opportunities, contact Chantel Oppelt at chantel@appliedalchemy.online or Desiree Angus at desiree@reachforthestars.africa