December 13

The smallest nation in South East Asia shook the hiphop dance world by storm in 2009.  The Republic of SINGAPORE has a population of approximately just 5 million people, consisting of a highly cosmopolitan and diverse group that includes Chinese, Indian and Malay.  As one of the four Asian Tigers (including Hong Kong, South Korea and Taiwan), Singapore is better known for its booming economy and has one of the busiest ports in the world.  In hiphop dance, the country is still establishing its identity as it develops its talented and passionate youth.  This year, the Singaporeans got a return on their dancing investment.  

Singapore took strides in sending their best dancers to Australia in 2007 and 2008.  The Rough Addicts placed fifth overall, while Elecoldxhot garnered eight place, respectively in WSB.  Excellent groups, but they withstood some serious competition.

In 2009, the country sent delegates to Las Vegas and Melbourne to compete and bring back more knowledge, but this time around Singapore stepped up on the dance floor.  Their group in Las Vegas, JOYCE AND THE BOYS, sent a clear message - we are ready to battle.  The crew finished with the OPEN Division BRONZE medal, toppling two-time World Champions PHILIPPINE ALLSTARS.  It was a major achievement in front of the best crews in the region. 

SUNTEC CITY Mall held its annual SUNTEC DANCE Finals in September, granting the the automatic selection of new Singaporean champions IF YOU'RE HAPPY AND YOU KNOW IT CLAP YOUR HANDS (IFHAYKICYH) and second-place group SEVEN CREW to the WSB Championship.  Both crews managed to fly their way Melbourne, Australia last November 29 for the prestigious WORLD SUPREMACY BATTLEGROUNDS Championship.  The Australasian competition attracted the best of the best in the Pacific.  Same story, but this time the Singaporeans made a resounding impression to the judging panel.  Their differing styles stood out, and after THE PHILIPPINES' Amplified were crowned OPEN DIVISION CHAMPIONS, the Silver and Bronze medals were awarded to the SEVEN Crew and IYHAYKICYH.  It left the audience stunned, but satisfied.  Singapore cleaned up that night. 

Victories in both competitions have put Singapore on the hip-hop map.  Their achievements will inspire many more kids to continue dancing and innovating, but more importantly it is a testament to the hard work and drive that Singaporean dancers and choreographers have put into their routines, and the support they received from believers such as SUNTEC CITY.  It's been a slow road, but finally Singapore hip-hop dance has finally received the respect they deserve.    #