Lyricist has become the first Vietnamese team to win the Singaporean Super 24 ASEAN Open Championship dance competition. — Photo Courtesy Lyricist

HCM CITY — Vietnamese troupe Lyricist has won this year’s Super 24 ASEAN Open Championship to become the first non-Singaporean winner of the dance competition.

Despite rehearsing for less than two months after winning the qualifying event in Việt Nam, Lyricist brought a stand-alone, unique performance to the finals.

The spectacular performance with the message “Live for yourself” was about pursuing what you love and giving it your all without worrying what people think.

Dr Alexander Tú, director of performing arts of Soul Music and Performing Arts Academy (SMPAA), is the founder of LYRICIST and the main choreographer.

This year the contest attracted troupes from Singapore, Việt Nam, the Philippines and Thailand.

Conceptualised in 2012, the event sought to develop teamwork, tenacity, trust, and technique besides artistic dancing.

Teams are to consist of 24 members aged below 35 and performing a 90-second routine on an eight by eight metre floor.

What began as a simple idea has become a juggernaut in the Singapore, and now regional, dance arenas.

It is now a highly anticipated event that grows larger every year, expanding its reach into the region.

It attracted more than 1,700 dancers this year. — VNS