This story was updated at 6.40 pm on April 18, 2025.
(RJ Production Photo by Rutul Joshi).
Venkat Raman
Auckland, April 18, 2025
Stutie (Junoo) Sharma and Ramya Negi, with their team of choreographers, make-up artists, families, friends, parents and choreographers, staged a spectacular show titled Boogie Woogie Lil Champs at the Green Bay School Performing Arts Centre on Sunday, April 13. 2025.
In an era where artistic expression often finds itself overshadowed by fleeting trends and ephemeral entertainment, Boogie Woogie Lil Champs emerged as a beacon of creativity, passion, and intergenerational harmony. This unique spectacle, featuring ten pairs, each comprising a child artiste and her mentor or mother (there was only one tweenage male), was nothing short of a revelation, a testament to the boundless potential of young performers and the nurturing guidance of their seasoned counterparts.
(RJ Production Photo by Rutul Joshi).
Symphony of Synchronisation
From the moment the curtains ascended, the audience was transported into a realm where rhythm reigned supreme, and the spirit of dance infused every movement with an electrifying energy. The stage, adorned with resplendent hues and shimmering lights, provided the perfect canvas upon which these gifted artistes painted their stories through dance.
Each performance was a symphony of synchronisation, a harmonious interplay between youthful exuberance and the wisdom of experience.
The participating pairs were (each pair led by the mentor or parent) (1) Alisha Singh-Ayaan Ambedkar (2) Anusha Namjoshi-Divisha Shrivastava (3) Apoorva Sabadra-Viyona Sabadra (4) Kanika-Swara (5) Malisha-Sanaa (6) Navleen-Dhanvi (7) Pranvi Mathur-Aaria Lal (8) Saawani-Avyra (9) Tanvi-Ishita and (10) Tisha Wadhwa-Aadhya Sharma. The mononymous is not our choice.
(RJ Production Photo by Rutul Joshi).
The Winners
The Anusha Namjoshi-Divisha Shrivastava pair, which gave a splendid performance of Kathak, was easily the winner and when the Judges (Anuradha Ramkumar, Jayesh Bateriwala, Kashika Singh, Shawn Thomas and Viraf Todywalla) declared them the Winners.
Pranvi Mathur-Aaria Lal were the First Runners-Up, followed by Alisha Singh-Ayaan Ambedkar (the only male performer in the contest) as the Second Runners-Up. Tisha Wadhwa-Aadhya Sharma were the audience favourites.
Alisha Singh-Ayaan Ambedkar won the Best Choreography Award, and the Best Costume Title went to Apporva Sabadra and Viyona Sabadra.
The ingenuity of the format was evident in the seamless fusion of styles, as the child artists, brimming with raw talent and unbridled enthusiasm, complemented the grace and finesse of their mentors. The choreography, meticulously crafted to highlight the strengths of each duo, showcased an impressive range, from the vivacious and spirited to the poignant and deeply emotive.
It was a masterclass in artistic collaboration, where technique met emotion, and discipline intertwined with spontaneity.
One could not help but marvel at the sheer versatility displayed by the young performers.
(RJ Production Photo by Rutul Joshi).
Their ability to adapt to complex routines, execute intricate footwork, and convey profound narratives through movement was nothing short of extraordinary. Yet, beyond the technical prowess, it was the palpable connection between the pairs that truly elevated the evening.
The unspoken understanding, the shared glances of encouragement, and the mutual celebration of triumphs rendered each performance a deeply personal and moving experience.
There were flaws, but these were only signs of youngsters on the grow.
The mentors played an instrumental role in shaping the artistic journeys of their protégés. Their presence on stage was not merely that of a guiding force but of an equal partner in expression.
They let themselves in abandon, encouraged with warmth, and, in moments of brilliance, stepped back to allow their young counterparts to shine. It was a dynamic that spoke volumes about the power of mentorship.
The Time Frame
The evening was punctuated by moments of sheer magic – instances where the synergy between mentor and child transcended the confines of choreography and became something far greater. Whether it was a perfectly timed twirl, an impromptu flourish, or a shared expression of joy, these fleeting yet profound moments encapsulated the essence of the show. It was not merely a competition or a showcase of skill; it was a celebration of artistry, of relationships, and of the transformative power of dance.
It seemed to this reporter (perhaps a perception) that a couple of contestants did not conform to time discipline, and the organisers would hopefully address this lacuna in their next edition.
The judges were visibly moved by the performances. Their critiques served not only to commend but to inspire further growth. The audience, too, was enraptured, responding with thunderous applause and standing ovations that echoed the collective admiration for the talent on display. It was a rare spectacle where the boundary between performer and spectator blurred, where every individual present felt a part of something truly special.
Fostering Talent
Beyond the dazzling performances, the show carried a deeper significance. It underscored the importance of fostering artistic talent from a young age, of providing platforms where creativity can flourish, and of recognising the invaluable role of mentorship in shaping future generations. In a world that often prioritises competition over collaboration, this event stood as a testament to the beauty of shared artistry, of learning through guidance, and of the profound impact that encouragement can have on a young artist’s journey.
As the final act drew to a close and the stage was bathed in light, there was an undeniable sense of fulfilment in the air. The performers, having poured their hearts into their craft, stood with pride, their faces illuminated by the joy of accomplishment. The mentors, too, beamed with a quiet satisfaction, knowing that their guidance had helped shape moments that would be cherished for a lifetime.
(RJ Production Photo by Rutul Joshi).
The Architects of Artistic Brilliance
In the realm of performing arts, where creativity meets passion, there exist individuals whose vision transcends mere entertainment and instead fosters a movement, one that nurtures talent, inspires generations, and elevates the very essence of artistic expression.
Among them are Stutie (Junoo Sharma) and Ramya Negi, the dynamic duo whose unwavering commitment to dance and mentorship has culminated in the Boogie Woogie Lil Champs show.
As the Founder-Director of AKS Digital Media, Events and Entertainment, Stutie has become a force to reckon with in the creative industry. Her ability to conceptualise and execute events that resonate with audiences is a testament to her ingenuity and deep understanding of artistic storytelling. Her vivacity, coupled with an innate ability to connect with performers and spectators alike, has made her an indispensable figure in the world of entertainment.
Ramya Negi, the Director of Little Kiwis Playhouse, shares an equally profound passion for fostering young talent. Her dedication to providing platforms where children can explore and refine their artistic abilities testifies to her commitment to the arts. As a dancer herself, she understands the transformative power of movement and expression, and through Boogie Woogie, she has ensured that young artists receive the encouragement and exposure they deserve.
Together, Stutie and Ramya have crafted an event that is far more than a mere competition; it is a celebration of mentorship, collaboration, and the boundless potential of young performers. Their vision for Boogie Woogie was not simply to showcase talent but to create an environment where creativity flourishes, where guidance is cherished, and where the synergy between mentor and protégé is honoured.
As the echoes of applause fade and the stage returns to stillness, one thing remains certain: Stutie and Ramya have not merely produced a show; they have ignited a movement, one that will continue to inspire and shape the artistic journeys of countless young performers.
