For the first time at the Prêmio Onça Pintada (Spotted Jaguar Award), the largest dance festival in Mato Grosso do Sul, the Cia Juvenil of the Instituto Moinho Cultural Sul-Americano shone and secured two places on the podium. The event, held in Campo Grande, brought together groups from across the state and marked a victorious debut for the group, with second place in contemporary dance and third in classical ballet.

The company performed the choreography “YBYTU,” which took second place in the contemporary dance competitive showcase. Inspired by the Tupi-Guarani word meaning “wind,” the choreography, created by Kelven Alex, expressed the strength and ancestry of movement on stage.

In classical ballet, the Pas de Deux “Pássaro Azul” (Blue Bird), performed by Ana Michelle and Marcos Vinícius, secured third place in the junior duo category. Ana Michelle highlighted the emotion of representing Moinho and celebrating the achievement.

Young artists move the audience and earn recognition at a regional competition. Photo: Moinho Cultural

The director of the Instituto Moinho Cultural Sul-Americano, Márcia Rolon, emphasized that participating in the festival goes beyond the awards. “In Corumbá, we don’t have a theater, which limits the exchange of knowledge. That’s why the proposal to bring participants to the Prêmio Onça Pintada is to give them the chance to meet other groups, different dancers and styles, broadening their horizons and nurturing their dreams. Taking part in this event is also a big emotional test — and for that, we have the support of a team made up of psychologists, in addition to the social and cultural units. It’s an experience that strengthens, brings security, boosts self-esteem, and generates valuable lessons.”

Marcos Souza, winner of the Best Dancer award in 2024, returned to the event as a special guest, performing classical and contemporary solos. “It’s been an incredible experience. I’m very grateful to Moinho, to Márcia and to the whole team. I’m loving all of this,” he said.

With 16 members, the Cia Juvenil had three accompanying teachers and the support of the Andorinha and LHG institutions. Moinho’s dance coordinator, Aline Espírito Santo, highlighted the young people’s dedication. “It’s even more rewarding when it involves young people who come from a small inland town, from a peripheral border area, far from the major centers, where access to opportunities is more limited. They got here with discipline, responsibility and a lot of dedication.”