What does it take to dance solo in the Bachata World Championships? An insight into the criteria, challenges and what it takes to stand alone on stage – without a partner, but with full responsibility for every movement.
Dancing solo in the Bachata World Championship – A journey of artistic freedom, fear and mastery
"Everything you've ever wanted lies on the other side of fear."
– George Addair
An overwhelming but magical experience
Standing alone on stage at a World Championship is one of the most terrifying – yet magical – experiences I can imagine. The thought of competing in the Solo category at the Bachata World Championships in December feels both surreal and overwhelming. This is my first journey towards something so big, and while I still have time to prepare, I know that every day leading up to the championship will be crucial.
Have you ever faced a challenge that both scares and fascinates you at the same time?
No partner – Just me and the stage
Dancing Solo means everything depends on me. There is no partner to lean on, no one to share the responsibility with – just me, the music and the stage. I have to own every step, every movement and every emotion I want to convey.
The judges' gaze – What is being assessed
In the competition, I am assessed on several criteria:
- Pace and timing must be precise.
- The musicality must shine through.
- The technique must be clean.
- The choreography must be both creative and demanding.
But it's not just about dancing. I have to be able to capture the audience's attention, create a connection, and convey a story that feels real.
The fear lurking in the background
But I'll be honest – it scares me. Standing all alone on stage with all eyes on me is an intense challenge. Thoughts creep in: What if I forget part of the choreography? What if I can't convey what I want? The nerves before I go on stage are going to be there, I already know that.
When fear becomes a driving force
At the same time, it is precisely this feeling that makes the journey so valuable. When the music starts, everything else disappears. Fear turns into energy, tension turns into driving force. The body takes over, and suddenly it is no longer about technique or judgment – but about being present in the moment.
Why did I choose to dance solo?
I could have competed in a duo or with a partner, but there was something about the challenge of standing all alone on stage that attracted me. Maybe it's about the freedom – the ability to dance exactly how I feel the music, without having to adapt to another person's movements. Maybe it's also a desire to prove to myself that I can.
Following a dream – No matter your age
Dance has always been a big part of my life, but this is the first time I have set myself such a purposeful challenge on an international level. When I dance, I feel free. The rhythm of the music, the waves of movement, the feeling of being one with the music – it is an experience that cannot be described in words. And now I get the chance to show exactly this on stage in front of the world.
Have you ever had a dream you thought was out of reach?
A dream that felt too big, too demanding, or perhaps too risky?
Breaking down "ageism"
But this isn't just about me. I know that many, especially at my age, have been taught to believe that it's too late. That certain dreams belong to the young. That there's an invisible limit to what we "should" do when we reach a certain age. I refuse to accept that.
Ageism is one of the biggest limitations we place on ourselves – and on each other. I want to show that it is never too late to challenge yourself, to grow, to learn something new, and to stand in the spotlight even when the world says the stage belongs to the younger ones.
More than just a competition
For me, this journey is not only a personal challenge, but also an opportunity to inspire others to follow their own dreams, no matter how old they are. It's not about age – it's about determination, passion and the courage to go for what you really want.
The moment that counts
The moment before the music starts, when everything goes quiet and I'm standing alone on stage – it's both terrifying and magical. But I know that once I take the first step, there's no turning back. It's just me, the music and the story I want to tell.
The journey has just begun.
This is my first journey towards something like this, and I know it will be challenging. But I also know that it is in the challenges that we grow. I am looking forward to this journey, and I am looking forward to sharing it with you.
When was the last time you did something that really challenged you? Something that gave you butterflies in your stomach, but also sparked a spark of excitement?
