Over King’s Birthday Weekend, three talented Iona College students Addie Evans, Isobel Taylor and Sofia Webster represented their dance studio, Sophie Jean Dance Company, at the prestigious Impact Experience Dance Competition held in Wellington.

These dedicated dancers delivered outstanding performances across multiple categories, with their contemporary troupe earning 1st place and their jazz troupe placing 3rd in their division. In recognition of their exceptional artistry and technical skill, the contemporary piece was also nominated to represent the entire competition at the PACANZ (Performing Arts Competitions Association of New Zealand) National Young Performer Awards, to be held in Palmerston North in October this year.

This nomination is a significant honour, reflecting not only the dancers' talent and commitment but also the high calibre of training and choreography. Representing Impact Experience at PACANZ places them among the top youth performers in the country.

We are incredibly proud of these students and look forward to supporting them as they prepare to showcase their work on the national stage later this year.

Article added: Wednesday 13 August 2025