The competition dancers of Island Dance won bronze, silver, gold, high gold, and platinum awards in various categories at the Encore dance competition.

Island Dance received a record five golds and one platinum.

The platinum award went to a hip hop dance called “The Puppeteer.” “The Puppeteer” was choreographed by Andrea Burr.

It was danced by Graham Vanderwood, Heather Plumberg, Leah Beck and Martha Gil-Ossario. “The Puppeteer” came in fourth out of all the dances in any style in the senior category ages 14 and older.

But the successful showing at Encore is just the beginning. In March the teams will travel to different venues all over Washington to compete. Their next stop is a convention competition in mid-March in Tacoma. During the L.A. Elite competition the dancers ages 8 to 17 will have a chance to compete and work with other dancers in classes.

“This year is going to be a successful year,” said artistic director and studio owner Charlene Brown.

On South Whidbey the Island Dance studios seem synonymous with Whidbey Island Dance Theatre which puts on the Nutcracker and Choreography Showcase each year. While there are some of the same key players, it’s important to know that the studio and the dance company are two different entities.

Competition dancers and performers at Island Dance performances are often different dancers than the modern and ballet company.

The competition group focuses on contemporary dance, said co-artistic director Susan Vanderwood.

It’s less about technique and more about fun.

“It’s a world where they can express themselves differently,” she said. There is also a market for contemporary dancers as instructors, performers in music videos and at concerts.

Letting the kids go and show what they worked for in a competitive environment can be a great motivator for the young dancers.

“It lets them shine,” Brown added.

South Enders have a chance to get a taste of the contemporary dance at Island Dance on March 30, 31 and April 1.

“Other Moves” will be a small concert at Island Dance studios with regional known guest artists and the Island Dance teams will show their work.

Tickets for “Other Moves” are $10 in advance and $15 at the door.

Master classes open to the public will be held during the weekend as well. Some dance experience is necessary.