WATCH: Legends were truly made at Legends Are Made season 3 finale
WATCH: Legends were truly made at Legends Are Made season 3 finale
Excitement reached a crescendo as dancers from across South Africa lit up the stage at Woodlands International College for the Legends Are Made Season 3 finale, held on Saturday, June 22.
The competition, which unfolded over four days, June 14, 15, 16, and 22, celebrated a rich tapestry of talent, featuring a wide variety of styles including Freestyle, Rock and Roll, Disco, Hip Hop, Slowdance, Acro, Lyrical, Jazz, Ballet, Amapiano, Belly Dancing, Showdance, Ballroom and Latin (International, American, and Pro-Am), Vocals, and more.
With over 800 entries submitted last year, the event has once again confirmed its status as one of South Africa's top platforms for discovering and celebrating dance and music excellence.
For co-founder Duerell de Pontes, the event's most powerful moments came from its spirit of unity.
'The most unforgettable memories were watching dancers from all over South Africa come together, sharing their joy and passion for dance and music,' he said.
De Pontes said a standout performance came from the Magic Feet Foundation, a group of talented young dancers from disadvantaged communities. Their group formation piece, performed on Sunday, June 15, captivated the crowd.
'It was absolutely magical. The audience was in awe. We are so proud of these incredible dancers.'
He admitted that hosting an event of this magnitude came with logistical challenges. Late entries, even on the day of the event meant the team had to reorganize the program multiple times.
'Despite the chaos, everything came together beautifully in the end,' De Pontes added.
He said a defining feature of Legends Are Made is its celebration of dance in all its forms. From hip-hop to ballroom, and even a dedicated wheelchair dance division, the competition caters to every age, ability, and background.
'We welcome dancers from age three to seniors. The atmosphere each day was absolutely electric.'
The event's driving force highlighted that this year also marked significant growth in the partnered ballroom and Latin-American categories.
'In previous years, we had many solo dancers due to a lack of partners. Thanks to a technical workshop and private sessions by French adjudicator Angelik Meyer, we've seen more partnerships form and skills improve dramatically.'
Also Read: Legends Are Made dance competition concludes with a bang
Rather than introducing new features, this season focused on strengthening its winning formula.
'The Legends Are Made brand continues to resonate. We chose to refine and amplify what already works, and it's paid off with increased participation.'
The founder said with such a broad range of age groups, strategic scheduling played a crucial role.
'Younger dancers competed in the morning followed by prize-giving, while adults had their slots later in the Music tempo and genre were also tailored to suit different age groups.'
The dance advocate said inclusion and accessibility remain central to the competition's mission.
'Supporting dancers from underprivileged backgrounds is essential,' De Pontes said.
'It's about creating equal opportunities, uplifting youth, and building a diverse and dynamic dance community.'
Looking ahead, Legends Are Made aims to establish a dedicated foundation, expand outreach to schools and townships, offer professional development pathways, and host a nationally televised finale. The dream is to create a legacy that transforms lives through dance.
Among this year's shining stars was Bloemfontein's Michè Erasmus from Dance Domination.
'I started dancing at two,. Hip-hop and amapiano let me express myself. Before I perform, I pray and leave it in God's hands.' Michè walked away with gold in showdance and silver in amapiano.
Also Read: Talent galore as Legends are Made Season Three kicks off
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