Quebec troupe DM Nation, which dominated a competition that brought together 55 countries, were named world hip-hop dance champions. A premiere for this troupe that brings together 39 dancers.
“I feel an incredible sense of pride and great gratitude. It is the result of many years of work. We couldn’t ask for anything better,” launched Sophie Lavigne, who has been present since the beginning of this adventure.
DM Nation represented Canada at this World Cup, held in Phoenix, Arizona last weekend. This troupe is affiliated with the District.Mao dance school in Lévis.
Their number, titled DM Nation, allowed them to score an 8 out of 10. They are the only team to have achieved this result in the MegaCrew category.
“We had no expectations. We went there without aiming to win a medal. Our goal was to stay focused and give the best of ourselves. However, we knew during the qualifying phase that it was possible and that we had something special on our hands,” said Caroline Lemieux, choreographer at Marie-Odile Haince-Lebel.
This was DM Nation’s third appearance at the World Hip-Hop Dance Championship.
“There is nothing greater in the world of dance,” added the choreographer, specifying that this competition is the equivalent and the prestige of the Olympic Games.
DM Nation flew through Wednesday’s stages and Thursday’s semifinals before advancing to the finals. She dominated the finale presented on Saturday, overtaking the United States, France, Thailand, Japan and Korea.
“We made no mistake. We gave everything we had. The rest is something that belongs to the judges and that we no longer have any control over.
realization of a dream
Sophie Lavigne, one of the deans of the 32-year-old DM Nation squad, did not have time to celebrate this still very fresh title.
Back in Quebec, DM Nation will be at the ComediHa! Gala tonight. Fest is hosted by Marie-Mai and is attending the SuperFrancoFête on August 31st at the Agora du Port de Québec.
“Sometimes there is a small descent after experiencing big emotions. We’re back in training this morning and we don’t really have time to experience that,” she said, laughing.
“To be crowned “World Champion” in front of the entire international dance scene is a dream, a priceless feeling. The support and recognition from other countries, especially from renowned directors and choreographers, which we respect very much, goes a long way,” explained Caroline Lemieux.
Alpha Crew Troupe, also affiliated with District.Mao Dance School, won a bronze medal in the junior category behind Kana Boon Troops! from Japan and Swagganaut from New Zealand.