IN A display of profound emotion and artistic excellence, the Company of Ateneo Dancers (CADs) clinched the first runner-up spot in the College Mixed Contemporary category of the 2025 National Dance Championship Finals. Their emotionally-charged performance to Olivia Newton-John’s classic, “Hopelessly Devoted to You,” dazzled the crowd earlier today at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
This recognition adds to Ateneo’’s growing reputation in the national dance scene. In 2024, CADs clinched first place in the Senior B (12 & Up) ensemble: Contemporary category at the Philippine Dance Cup. Their performance last year, set to “Sabel” by Ben&Ben ft. KZ Tandingan, captivated audiences with its narrative of resilience and the story of the marginalized.
This year, the competition brought together some of the best dance troupes in the country, serving as a celebration of dance with each troupe offering a unique interpretation of their chosen pieces. Ultimately, it was Ateneo’s emotional resonance and technical mastery that captured the attention of the judges and audience, earning them their well-deserved spot as first runner-up.
The Katipunan-based troupe bagged their silver trophy with the judges handing them a total score of 258.5—1.5 points above the Tarlac State University (TSU) Contemporary Dance Team. Meanwhile, the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Salinggawi Dance Troupe topped the competition at 272.5 points.
Filled with raw emotion and beautifully-executed choreography, the Ateneo dancers embodied the song’s hauntingly sincere lyrics, expressing themes of love, longing, and devotion. As Newton-John’s voice echoed through the arena, the troupe’’s movements perfectly mirrored the heartache conveyed in the ‘70s hit song.
While the competition remained fierce, their performance became a showcase beyond just a dance from its opening moments, with the Katipunan-based team’s fluidity of movement manifesting their powerful connection to the song. Banking on their technical skills, the team’s synchronicity—combined with the delicate intensity of their movements—provided a deeply moving and unforgettable performance.
Podium Rankings:
Champion – UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe
First Runner-Up – Company of Ateneo Dancers – Contemporary
Second Runner-Up – TSU Contemporary Dance Team
