A Reflection on Music House Dance Company’s First Competition
by Kathleen Alvarado, Dance Program Coordinator
This past weekend, for the first time ever, Music House Dance Company competed in a dance competition, The guiDANCE Experience. Over the years, we wondered if taking our students to a dance competition aligns with our educational goals. We want to provide our young dancers with motivating and inspiring experiences and worried that a competition would not be a healthy emotional experience. But, our Dance Company students wanted to compete! So, we searched for a competition that shared our values and prepared our students for the competition world.
The guiDANCE Experience exceeded our expectations. The atmosphere at the competition was filled with kindness and encouragement and it was a beautiful reminder of the power of positivity and support in the dance world. As dancers from studios across Chicago lined up to perform, they wished each other luck. When one group exited the stage, other competitors congratulated them and celebrated their performance. It was heartwarming to witness.
Considering this was our first competition, we went in for the experience and did not expect to win anything—we simply came to do our best.
Our trio group performed a piece based on the old folktale of “La Llorona” and they poured their hearts into telling the story through the choreography. Their soulful performance was recognized with a Judges’ Award for “Committed Performers”—a proud and well-deserved moment. This trio group placed 1st Overall!!
During the dancers performance of “Love Goes”, the unexpected happened: the Stop the Show buzzer rang and we won another award for “Stopping the Show!” We were overjoyed, cheering from the sidelines and beaming with pride.
My favorite moment was being awarded with the Next Generation Award. This accolade honors studios showcasing not just promising technique but also inspiring character in their young dancers. A tribute to the bright potential and exceptional spirit of the next generation in dance.
Every dancer who stepped on that stage gave a beautiful performance and received genuine support from their fellow competitors. It was amazing to watch our students feel seen, valued, and celebrated within this nurturing community.
The judges recognized each dancer’s individuality while offering meaningful, constructive feedback. Our students left feeling not only inspired by the performances they saw—especially from the senior competitors—but also motivated to continue refining their technique and artistry.
I was brought to tears on many occasions throughout the day. I am so proud of the Dance Company and the dance program I am helping to build at Music House. I am proud to be able to give our students a safe and positive environment where they are seen, heard, and supported. Where they are able to hone in on their craft while becoming the best version of themselves without judgement.
This past weekend was such a beautiful and rewarding experience. We are looking forward to continuing to provide our dancers with more unforgettable and rewarding experiences.
Here is a full list of our awards! If you see our dancers, be sure to congratulate them!
Music House, both companies, were awarded The Next Generation Award!
West Rogers Park Group Number: “Love Goes” - Awarded Stop the Show Award & placed 1st Overall in the pre-teen category!
West Rogers Park Trio number “La llorona” placed 1st Overall in the pre-teen category and awarded the Committed Performance!
Suelexia’s Jazz solo placed 2nd Overall in the pre-teen category, awarded the Stop the Show Award, and a scholarship!
Ellie's tap number placed 4th place and awarded the Clean, Clear and Crisp judge award!
Beatrice’s tap solo placed 5th in the pre-teen category!
Humboldt Park studio scored a High Gold for their group number “Survivor”!
Faye was awarded the Unique Style Award for her Afro beats solo!
