Island Dance’s first event of the season brought the team not only six trophies but an invitation to the Rainbow Nationals. The qualifying competition was held Jan. 22 at the Highline Performing Arts Center in Burien.

Grace Colby was the very first dancer to perform and her hip-hop solo “The Choice is Yours” received a gold trophy in the junior division. Next up was Melissa Smith with her lyrical solo, “Time of my Life” in the teen division. Melissa, a full-tuition scholarship recipient for this competition, earned a high gold trophy, as well a grander trophy, for having placed fifth as a “Rising Starz” overall high point champion for all soloists in her division regardless of dance style.

Sylvia Hurlburt of Coupeville and Melissa Smith also performed a rousing teen musical dance theatre duo, “I Can’t Do It Alone” from the show “Chicago,” and nailed another high gold trophy award.

One of the most unique aspects of the competition is that it now allows for the least experienced dancers to compete in their own category, as did junior dancers Kendall Marshal, Alexa Varga and Grace Colby. The girls received gold and best overall trophies.

All of the Island Dance entries qualified to attend Rainbow Nationals in Wisconsin at the end of June. The team is now organizing its local fundraising show, “Other Moves,” scheduled for March 25 and 26.