Date Added:
22/9/2009
FOR most people in life, it takes a long time for one to discover their talent(s) in life. For some, it shows up early and for others it may not manifest at all. For Devoney Crossman, a South African living on Koh Samui, free-style dancing was a talent she discovered at an early age.
“I was about six years old and had a friend who did free-style dancing, and I used to love watching her do it,” says Ms. Crossman, now 15. “I found a good coach, practiced a lot and began winning practically every competition I entered. It was amazing!”
For each competition, there are different categories as well, and Crossman did not stick to just one, she entered them all. High energy, slow dancing, rock and roll, hustle and couples are just some of the subcategories that Devoney would compete in. “My coach and I would create a routine, and then I would do nothing but practice until the time of the competition. It was highly stressful and competitive, but I really enjoyed it and it felt so wonderful to receive the trophies,” says Devoney.
When Crossman relocated to Koh Samui, she had to pack over 300 trophies. “That doesn’t even include the ‘floating’ trophies that get passed around each year that I had won over the years,” she says.
Crossman performed at such a high level that she was invited to participate in the world championships, but unfortunately she could not attend. However, in 2006, she came in sixth place in an international competition held in her home country.
Crossman’s mother, Belinda, tailors all of Devoney’s costumes and dresses for the competitions.
From the earrings to the shoes and bracelets, Belinda puts just as much work into her daughter’s appearance. “She has to look good, it is just as important as her dance routine,” says Belinda.
“Now it is impossible for me to hear any music and not start thinking of dance moves that would look good for that particular beat,” says Crossman. In fact, the dance contestants are unaware of what song will be played for their actual competition dance. “As long as the beat and timing is the same, then the rest doesn’t really matter,” says Crossman.
So how much longer or how much further will she continue dancing? “I am good friends with a girl that won the world competition, Tanith Blom, so it is good to talk to her, but I don’t know how long I will continue. I have had offers to teach dance here on Koh Samui, and I have also thought about maybe helping out at a dance school. I am only fifteen so I think I have some time to think it over!” she says with a smile. |
