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For seven-year-old Taya Nelson, her dream is to become a dance instructor and a dance judge.
“I enjoy dance and love meeting new friends at dance competitions,” said Nelson, a dancer with The Dance Academy – Kay Williams Prunty in Worthington, Minn. Nelson has experience in jazz, tap and ballet techniques, as well as some acrobatics.
Rounding out her fifth year of dance and second year of competitive dance, Nelson was named a Platinum Performance Plus (P3) Ambassador at the national dance competition in Kansas City, Mo.
The ambassador and assistant programs are new offerings to P3 competitors. The talent company will use the programs to foster growth, creativity and excellence within the dance community. The program involves three age categories with varying levels of obligations and benefits. Nelson applied for the pint-sized ambassador position that was open to youth ages eight and under. Responsibilities of this age group include attending a convention, sharing P3 on social media, experiencing a professional audition process and apparel.
“My dance teacher, Kay Williams Prunty, and my mom put together a resume for me. Rickers Studio took our dance pictures this spring, so we used that picture for my head shot,” said Nelson, daughter of Scott and Kristel Nelson.
During the audition, the competitors were interviewed and taught choreography that they performed for judges.
“Auditions were closed so nobody was allowed to observe. It was like we were doing real auditions to become a famous dancer,” said Nelson, of Slayton. “I was nervous when I auditioned, but I tried my best.”
The results were announced at the award ceremony at the end of the convention.
“I was really excited that I had been chosen as an ambassador. I couldn’t believe it,” said Nelson. “I hope that I can help other dancers and that I can learn new techniques at the convention in Minneapolis.”
While at the national P3 competition, Nelson also performed in dance solo CANDY! Which was choreographed by Williams Prunty. She earned a Platinum rating with her solo and was also selected as P3 Power Performance, so she was able to compete with her solo for a second time. Forty-three routines were invited to perform in the special 14 and under category in hopes of being named “Best in Show”.
Nelson also competed in the improv contest for youth ages seven and eight where dancers express and create movement to a random selection of music. She made it to the third round of dancers. Dancers were also invited to participate in master classes with the three judges and the P3 Finale which consisted of dance practice for five days of the convention. The Finale was performed at the award ceremony.
As she looks forward to her time as a P3 Ambassador, she also looks forward to growing friendships and improving her performance skills during another year of dance this fall.
“I enjoy seeing my dance friends and performing at recitals,” said Nelson. “I have learned to be kind to others, help others and try my best. It takes a lot of practice. Never give up.”
