Five Mid Cantabrians tackled the World Championship of Performing Arts in Hollywood last month, including Layna Hunt (left) and Tilly Smith. Photo supplied.Young Mid Cantabrians have returned from the World Championship of Performing Arts with stars in their eyes, medals around their necks and a world of opportunities at their feet.

Dancer Krishay Nadan (15) along with singers Ocean Waitoka (14), Liam Pram (15), Tilly Smith (17) and Layna Hunt (25), jetted to Hollywood in June to show their skills as members of the New Zealand Black Stars.

A total of 26 New Zealand Black Stars performed at the championships, but Mid Cantabrians were particularly high achievers.

The five performers flew back with a heavy haul of silver and bronze medals.

Ocean described the trip as “just the best experience” and said the opportunity had helped to broaden her horizons.

“Seeing all the different styles and the way people express themselves – I feel like I can do more now.

“I’m a country singer but I want to try other styles now.”

Layna also described the trip as a “once in a lifetime experience” which has inspired her to work harder at honing her skills in musical theatre.

The championships ran over 10 days and included vocal, dance, modelling and acting categories. Performers had to take the stage multiple times and show their aptitude across styles.

For Liam, a guitar singer, it meant refining his ability to perform western, rock, world and original genres.

“There were about 200 people watching each performance … I guess it was a little scary,” he said.

“But I won silver in all of my categories.”

Krishay said he liked the experience so much that he intends to return in two years’ time to dance in the next age range up.

However, it wasn’t all easy going.

“I couldn’t actually practice because I rolled my ankle before the competition,” he said … but now I’m third best in the world.”

The opportunity to see the sights of Hollywood was also embraced by the performers, who had worked hard in the weeks leading up to the event to fundraise travel costs through sausage sizzles, raffles and busking.

“I’ve never really travelled before, said Layna, and it was a great experience.

“In our spare time we could walk around and explore … I was particularly lucky because (being older) I didn’t have to have my parents with me.”

For now, it’s back to study and work for the five, but not without heaps of new friends, performing arts inspiration, and newfound stardom having out their names on the world stage.

“It’s been a pretty big step,” Liam said.

By Katie Todd © The Ashburton Guardian - 14 August 2017