The Beaconsfield School pupil competed recently in the World Dance Champs in the Czech Republic, placing eighth in the world for her solo tap, and on Saturday, locals will get the chance to see what she can do when she dances at a fundraising event for the Maungati Hall.
With just a few years’ tap dancing under her belt, joining dancers from 63 countries around the world in front of crowds of 23,000 people was a five-week whirlwind for Victoria, parents Mark and Amelia, and brother Ben earlier this year.
She secured her place in the competition by competing at the Australian Nationals in Adelaide and auditioning for the Dance World Cup.
As the only New Zealander selected, Victoria got to carry the New Zealand flag at the opening ceremony, and took part in three events: solo tap, song and tap, and speed tapping — one of her favourite categories.
She began dancing at age 5, when teacher Hayley Griffin came to Beaconsfield School to take the children for group lessons.
"She said she had a good memory, good timing and good rhythm, and was very good for her age."
Victoria began having private lessons at school, and each Wednesday travels to Temuka with her teacher after school for another two-hour lesson.
She has travelled around New Zealand taking part in tap dancing competitions — with costumes created by Ms Griffin — and has a collection of sashes, medals and cups to show for her success.
Last week, she was preparing to sit her grade 2 and 3 exams, and has her sights set on the Australian Nationals again in January, where she hopes to qualify again for the Dance World Cup, which will be held next year in Spain.
The fundraising event at the Maungati Hall on Saturday begins at 1pm, and includes performances from the South Canterbury Highland Pipe Band, Victoria, Annamieke Beadle and Tim Kirke on piano, and concludes with an afternoon tea, for which donations are requested.
The Maungati Hall was built by the community in 1954 as a multi-purpose church hall.
