Hangzhou, China – January 11
Dancing towards the Light – DKU Student Hu Yuanfei Wins the “Starlight Award” at the PDE International Dance Competition
On March 12, DKU student Yuanfei Hu received the Top Prize – Starlight Award at the Prix d’Europe (PDE) International Dance Competition.
From the Studio to the Stage
Yuanfei displayed graceful dance moves on stage
The competition day lasted from morning until evening. Nearly nine hours of preparation and performance tested both the physical strength and mental focus of every dancer.
Yuanfei was awarded a prize in this competition
Yuanfei recalled that the theater felt both familiar and exciting. It was the same place where she once watched a dance performance. This time, however, she returned not as an audience member, but as a performer on stage. One of the most technically demanding parts, the Fouetté turns, was completed with confidence. “Once I stepped on stage, I just wanted to enjoy the performance,” Yuanfei shared.
About the Competition
The Prix d’Europe (PDE) is an international dance competition that brings together talented dancers from different regions. It offers young dancers a professional stage to present their artistic expression and technical skills. The competition includes several dance styles such as classical ballet and contemporary dance, making it both highly competitive and inspiring.
Dance competition profile
In this competition, Yuanfei competed in the Adult D1 Classical Ballet Solo category, performing the Le Corsaire Variation.
Support Behind the Achievement
Dance coach-Yue Zhang
She expressed special thanks to DKU Athletics for their support, and to her instructor Joy Zhang for the guidance and encouragement throughout rehearsals and the competition. “It is a very meaningful experience to perform on an international stage,” she said. “Every time I step on stage, it becomes another step of growth.”
Moving Forward
Group photo of Yuanfei and her coach
For Yuanfei, this competition is not only an honor, but also a new starting point. In the future, she hopes to keep balancing her academic life and artistic passion, and to bring DKU’s spirit to more stages.
With every step, she moves closer to the light. DKU Athletics will continue to support students in pursuing excellence both on and off the stage.
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