LOS ANGELES – A nine-year-old dancer from Hong Kong and her team captured third place at the World of Dance Summit Global Championship, marking the first time a Hong Kong group has reached the top three in the global finals.
Kakaball, the daughter of Hong Kong singer-actress Kay Tse and actor Louis Cheung, competed with her team I DREAM at the international dance event held in Los Angeles. The team advanced through preliminary rounds to earn a spot in the finals, where they secured the bronze medal.
Kay Tse documented the journey on social media, sharing photos and videos of her daughter’s emotional triumph. In a lengthy post, she wrote: “From Hong Kong to the world stage, @kakaball323 and her teammates created the first Hong Kong World of Dance Top 3. To be able to step onto the global final stage – the emotion and excitement are truly beyond words.”
The mother praised the young dancers for their resilience and dedication, noting that they seized every rehearsal opportunity even when facing world-class competition in Los Angeles. “The moment they stepped onto the stage, their movements were perfectly synchronized, every ounce of energy released without reservation – they performed at over 100% of their capability. Every single one of them shone brightly on that stage,” Tse wrote.
When the announcer declared I DREAM had placed third globally, the team erupted in tears and joy. Tse described the moment as emotionally overwhelming. “All the sweat and hardship became utterly worthwhile at that instant. You really made your dreams come true. This honor, this impossible mission – it’s not only the children’s hard work but also the talent and dedication of Teacher Danie, and the full support and passion of all the parents. We are deeply grateful for such an excellent team of partners,” she said.
Kakaball broke down crying as soon as she heard the result. Later, she confided in her mother: “I put in so much effort preparing, and I always wanted to dance better than the last time. Knowing we won third place, I’m so happy I achieved my goal.”
Tse said she was deeply moved by her daughter’s determination to improve. “In the days ahead, no matter what stage she wants to step onto, I will do my best to accompany and support her,” Tse wrote. “I look forward to the children’s next dance journey. Are you also looking forward to it?”
The World of Dance Summit Global Championship is an annual international competition that brings together dance crews from dozens of countries. I DREAM’s achievement marks a milestone for Hong Kong’s youth dance community, demonstrating that local talent can compete at the highest level.
The victory has resonated widely in Hong Kong’s entertainment and dance circles, with many congratulating the young dancers and their families for their dedication. For Kakaball, the experience has not only brought home a trophy but also reinforced the value of persistence and teamwork.
As Tse hinted, this may be just the beginning for the young dancer. With a supportive family, a skilled coach, and a team that has already proven its mettle on the global stage, Kakaball and I DREAM are poised to inspire a new generation of Hong Kong performers.
