Biggest Takeaways from my Europe Trip

Biggest Takeaways from my Europe Trip

There are moments in studio life that stay with you forever. Sometimes it’s the standing ovation at your concert. Sometimes it’s a quiet moment with a student who finally nails that triple turn. And sometimes... it’s watching your daughter win Dancer of the Year in a room full of international talent, with a self-choreographed street routine, no less.

This past month, Bec took a whirlwind trip from London to Italy that brought a fresh wave of insight, not just about dance, but about what really matters inside a studio.

BeBe's Big Moment

Let’s start with Bec’s daughter, BeBe. After being crowned Dancer of the Year at Showcase, she qualified for the World Dance Movement competition in Italy. It wasn’t just a comp, it was a five-day workshop-meets-gala-dinner-meets-life-changing experience.

BeBe competed in five sections, choreographed her own street dance piece, and walked away with three wins and a whole new level of confidence. She was also recognised as a standout leader during the workshops. Yep, proud mum moment overload.

And here’s the kicker: at one of the gala dinners, she was approached by an American agent offering US opportunities. That’s what we call a full-circle dance dream!

What We Saw at Pineapple Studios

While in London, Bec visited Pineapple Studios. It was buzzing with kids on a Sunday. We’re talking 30+ children in a small studio learning hip hop while their parents watched on.

It got us thinking… there’s so much potential in positioning studios as places for casual, drop-in recreational fun on weekends. Why shouldn’t dance be an entertainment option, like mini golf or movies?

The Power of Connection at Comps

At World Dance Movement, it wasn’t just about the trophies. It was about connection. Dancers from all over the world stayed in the same hotel, shared dinners, and bonded over their craft. The comp included gala events (think: a wedding-style dinner with a DJ and 1am pasta service), where everyone - from students to judges - mingled like old friends.

We left thinking: how can we bring more of this community magic into our own studios?

Let’s Talk Post-Show Magic

One idea we’re loving right now? Hiring a restaurant space after your concert to host a post-show dinner. Nothing fancy, just a chance for dancers and families to debrief, connect, and celebrate together. Those little moments become the memories that stick.

When BeBe returned home, her studio threw her a surprise party with a good luck card that had followed her through every comp. Honestly, she’ll probably remember that more than the medals.

Cultural Insights & Big Scholarships

Another eye-opener? The stylistic differences in dance across cultures. Europeans leaned more into natural movement, soft looks, and storytelling. South Africans wowed us with their creativity. It’s a great reminder that “great dancing” looks different everywhere, and there’s no one way to do it.

Oh, and did we mention close to $1 million in scholarships were handed out? One of our Team Australia dancers scored a $60,000 US college scholarship!

So, What Now?

This trip reminded us that success isn’t just about technique or competition wins. It’s about confidence, connection, and the moments in between.

So whether you're prepping for your next concert or brainstorming ways to boost community at your studio, here’s your friendly nudge: think beyond the stage. Celebrate the little things. Create the magic. It’s what they’ll remember most.

P.S. Want more behind-the-scenes tips and inspo? Come join us in The Tribe! We’re sharing photos, templates, and how we’re applying all this back home.