A national call-out for dancers from all four corners of South Africa, where judges were mandated to select 13 of the country's best talent, is finally wrapping up with the Bula Sekele Season 3 finals taking place at the Zone 6 Venue in Soweto on 9 December.
To enter the competition, dancers aged 18 and older had to submit their best videos to the Hunters Extreme WhatsApp number, where the judges had the gruelling task of deciding who would make it to the final stages in this year’s leg of the competition, which is said to have raised the bar in terms of creativity and standard.
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The judges were dying to witness the diversity of local dance styles, and it appears that the dancers heeded the call and did not disappoint. Although technique remained one of the key elements that performers were judged on, it was just as important for them to let their personalities lead.
The dancers are expected to bring their unique x-factor to the final live show, which also means that range is critical. Judge and local dancer who has also made a name for himself abroad, Tom London from Soweto’s Finest Dance Crew, said:
London is confident that this year’s finalists will "bring the house down" with their talent and versatility. He also highlighted the importance of the dancers’ ability to connect with the music and knowing when to "hit and when not to".
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Bula Sekele has been instrumental in accelerating the careers of previous winners, including Tylor Spelman, who is returning to the competition as one of this year’s judges. Pabi Cooper, Emtee and Daliwonga will also grace the Bula Sekele stage with their performances this year. The winner will dance away with R200 000, and the audience also gets to select their favourite who will scoop R50 000.