From 1–3 May 2025, a group of dedicated AQ Dance students proudly represented Singapore at the International Youth Dance Competition (IYDC) Chengdu 2025, held at the prestigious Sichuan Cultural & Arts Center in China. This enriching three-day event brought together young dancers from across the region to compete, collaborate, and connect through the language of dance.
For the AQ Dance team, it was not only a platform to showcase their talents, but also a valuable opportunity for personal growth, cultural exchange, and deeper understanding of the discipline and resilience that dance demands.
A Celebration of Achievements
Our students made us immensely proud with their outstanding performances and well-deserved recognition:
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Avril Chong achieved Top Scorer in both the 12 years old Ballet Solo & 12 years old Lyrical/Contemporary Categories along with 3 Gold medals. Avril was also selected as one of the Top 24 Solo and was awarded the coveted Spirit of IYDC Award. She also earned the Bird College Scholarship Award and will be attending the short courses at Bird College, UK in 2026.
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Jaycee Woon received Gold Medals for her Ballet and Lyrical solos, along with the Best Showmanship Award and a Top 24 Solo selection for the Gala performance. She was also awarded the Bird College Scholarship Award — a testament to her expressive artistry and technical control.
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Emily Low, our youngest top scorer, achieved Gold for her Novice Solo and Silver for her Ballet Solo in the 9 years old category, and was selected as one of the Top 24 Solos invited back for the Gala showcase.
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Alicia How received Gold Medal for her lyrical solo and a Silver Medal for her Ballet Solo in the 12 years old categories. She was also selected as one of the Top 24 Solos invited back for the Gala showcase.
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Kate Lee received Gold Medal for her lyrical solo and a Silver Medal for her Ballet Solo in the 9 years old categories. She was also selected as one of the Top 24 Solos invited back for the Gala showcase.
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Alice Ong received Silver Medals for her Ballet Solo in the 9 years old categories in Novice & General Solos.
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Audrey Tan received Silver Medals for both her Ballet & Contemporary solos in the 9 years old categories.
Beyond Medals: Growth Through Experience
While the accolades were a wonderful affirmation of our students’ hard work, what truly stood out on this trip was their growth as individuals. Being in a new environment, navigating unfamiliar stages, and interacting with peers from different countries gave our dancers a new sense of confidence, independence, and cultural awareness.
They learned to take care of themselves and one another, to perform under pressure, and most importantly, to dance with heart — not just for medals, but for the sheer love of the art.
The experience of participating in workshops, being evaluated by international adjudicators, and stepping onto a professional theatre stage has left a lasting impact on each student. The friendships made, lessons learned, and memories created will stay with them for years to come.
Looking Ahead
At AQ Dance Academy, we believe that competitions are not just about winning — they are stepping stones to growth. IYDC Chengdu 2025 was a testament to what our dancers can achieve with dedication, passion, and the right guidance.
We return from Chengdu not just with medals, but with hearts full of inspiration, and minds ready for the next challenge.
To our dancers — thank you for your spirit, your artistry, and for representing AQ Dance Academy with such pride and professionalism. We can’t wait to see where your journey takes you next.
AQ Dance