Sheboygan, WI – In an astounding victory that has reverberated throughout the dance community, Dollhouse Dance Factory, a dance studio based in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, has clinched the top prize at a prestigious world dance competition held in Orlando, Florida. The dancers’ exceptional performances have earned them the coveted title of world champions, placing their studio firmly on the international dance map.
Kayla Pittner, the founder of Dollhouse Dance Factory, expressed overwhelming elation and a touch of disbelief at the momentous achievement. “I truly still can’t believe it,” Pittner shared, her voice filled with emotion. “The trophy is right here, and every morning it’s the first thing I look at to make sure it’s real. It’s a dream come true, and honestly, it felt like a dream we weren’t even sure we could reach.”
The journey to this world-class victory involved bringing 30 talented young dancers, aged 13 to 18, to what is widely recognized as the “Olympics of Dance.” This multi-day international event, hosted at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort from April 29 to May 1, assembled approximately 3,500 dancers representing 40 countries, all vying for the title of world champion. Dollhouse Dance Factory qualified an impressive three routines for the competition, showcasing their versatility and skill in open hip-hop, senior small hip-hop, and senior large hip-hop categories.
Reflecting on past experiences at the competition, where Dollhouse had not previously broken into the top ten, Pittner admitted that expectations were tempered. The focus, she explained, was on enjoying the experience and giving their best performance. However, as the competition unfolded, each of Dollhouse’s routines progressively advanced, defying their initial expectations and culminating in all three dances securing a place within the top ten in their respective categories.
“We honestly thought maybe one of our routines might advance, but even in my message to the parents before we left, I mentioned that we weren’t really anticipating advancing in any category,” Pittner confessed. “Our main goal was to have a fantastic time and create lasting memories, especially for our 14 graduating seniors.”
It was the senior large hip-hop routine that ultimately propelled Dollhouse Dance Factory to the pinnacle of the competition. Considered the most fiercely contested category, senior large hip-hop features groups of 15 or more dancers all under the age of 18. Dollhouse Dance Factory’s dynamic routine featured 20 dancers, aged 13 to 18, demonstrating exceptional synchronization, energy, and artistry.
“Winning the senior large hip-hop category at worlds is incredibly challenging,” Pittner emphasized. “The visual impact of larger teams can be significant. The team that placed second, for instance, had fifty dancers. Standing next to them during the awards ceremony was quite something – they visually dwarfed us. It underscores just how difficult it is to succeed in this category, making our win even more extraordinary.”
The dedication and commitment of the Dollhouse dancers were instrumental in their success. The girls commenced work on their routines in August, diligently practicing four to five days a week for nine months. As the competition drew closer in April, their training intensified to six to seven days a week, demonstrating their unwavering resolve.
“They were incredibly driven,” Pittner remarked, highlighting the team’s exceptional work ethic. “There was a unique energy surrounding their practice sessions this year. Their positivity and camaraderie were remarkable. They genuinely had a special connection as a team, and it was truly rewarding to witness them become the team that brought home the first world championship for Dollhouse Dance Factory.”
In addition to their world championship title, Dollhouse Dance Factory achieved remarkable results in other categories. Their open hip-hop routine, featuring 15 dancers aged 16 to 23, secured fourth place in a category renowned for its international participation. Competing against 40 international teams, Dollhouse was among only three U.S. teams selected to participate, ultimately finishing behind a team from the Philippines in first place and two other U.S. teams in second and third. Furthermore, in the senior small hip-hop category, Dollhouse Dance Factory earned seventh place amidst a highly competitive field of approximately 100 teams. This category includes groups of 14 or fewer dancers aged 18 and under. Dollhouse’s routine featured 14 dancers aged 15 to 18.
To witness the electrifying performances that led to Dollhouse Dance Factory’s world championship victory and to experience the raw emotion of their win, videos are available on the Dollhouse Dance Factory Facebook page. Their remarkable achievement stands as a testament to their talent, hard work, and the exceptional guidance of Dollhouse Dance Factory, solidifying their place among the world’s elite dance studios.
