Triumphant Victory in High School Folk Dance Competition!
Notre Dame de Sion High School Triumphs at International Dance Competition in Rome
Istanbul’s Private Notre Dame de Sion French High School made headlines with a remarkable showing at the ‘Stelle Di Rome’ International Folklore, Dance, and Music Competition held in Rome, Italy, from April 26-28. The 80-member team represented Türkiye among 38 competing groups from various countries, proudly clinching first place in folk dance with their captivating performance of "Black Sea." In addition to their top honor, they achieved three second-place awards in separate music categories, showcasing their diverse talents.
A Journey of Dedication and Success
This victory is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the students, whose journey began in 2019 with just 16 members forming a dance community. Over the years, they have graced prestigious stages across Europe, earning recognition such as the Best Group Performance award in Vienna this year and a second-place finish in Spain last year.
Celebratory Welcome Back
Arriving back in Istanbul via Turkish Airlines at 7:10 PM, the students were welcomed with cheers and applause from their families at the airport. The students expressed their pride and joy, recognizing the award as a reward for a year of hard work. Team Chief Bora Ticket stated, "I congratulate our whole team. It was a good experience for us. We worked devotedly for a year and returned with the first place."
Harnessing the Power of Art
Semra Duman, the school’s Physical Education Teacher and dance club instructor, emphasized the significance of their participation, saying, "With the discipline of dance, we gave all our energy to the stage with the rhythm of music and the power of being together. We participated in a very enthusiastic festival." Their collective effort was recognized as they were awarded the esteemed Rome’s Stars Award in the International Platform.
Looking Ahead
Deputy Director Gökçe Bilici expressed pride in the students’ achievements and hinted at future aspirations. "We plan new routes and festivals next year. The aim is not only to win awards but also to introduce the world to our art, culture, and discipline.”
Musical Accomplishments
The Notre Dame de Sion team also showcased their musical talents during the festival. Three independent groups of young musicians performed Turkish rock covers, winning second place for their interpretations of songs by popular artists such as Mor ve Ötesi and Fatma Turgut. Music Teacher Ela Alpman remarked on the students’ professionalism, noting, "This experience greatly contributed to their self-confidence. Some students competed in both dance and music, achieving double success."
This extraordinary achievement not only highlights the talents of the students but also emphasizes the unifying power of art and culture, bringing together diverse groups in celebration and competition. Notre Dame de Sion High School continues to pave the way for creativity and excellence on international platforms.
