Opening Address

Lukas Hinder © Goetz

Here is the text of the speech that WDSF President Lukas held on the occasion of the Opening Ceremony of the 2016 European Standard.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is an honour to be standing here at the centre of this splendid venue and in front of so many DanceSport enthusiasts. Somehow the Centennial Hall and our sport seem to share common traits – above all when it comes to their history and evolution.

At the time when construction started on this masterpiece in reinforced concrete, steel and glass, competitive dancing was in its early infancy. One hundred years later, the hall has turned into a monument and dance into a genuine sport. Both by upholding the original concepts – which were clearly avant-garde at the beginning of the twentieth century but have since acquired a total timelessness!

So as we watch these couples whisk across the parquet in tails and gowns to determine the European Champions in the classic Standard dances, it may appear that a touch of vintage is mixed in with it. But upon a second glance we should all appreciate that what we see is also highly contemporary. That it is in fact as timeless as the surroundings here.

Today, you should be able to get an excellent first taste of what sets our sport apart from many others as the best Standard dancers on the continent have gathered here in 2016, the year that Wroclaw is the European Capital of Culture. You are even afforded a look at some of the other dance styles as well. But let me assure you that in 2017 – when your city will be host to The World Games – you will be able to get an even fuller picture of DanceSport, of its diversity, of its contrasts and its common themes.

When we return to Wroclaw in July 2017, we do so with the world’s best dancers in Latin, Salsa, Standard and Rock ‘n’ Roll. Over two days they should pack this fabulous hall to the last seat and entertain huge crowds with their performances.

I have to wear two hats during The World Games next year: one as President of my federation and the other as member of the executive of the International World Games Association. I shall juggle them as best I can over the ten days, but I will make sure that I have a good seat right here on 28 and 29 July 2017. You better get your tickets early too – there are only 439 day left. And in The World Games 2013 Cali they were sold out first of the 30+ sports that were contested there.

For the here and now you are all set. So lean back and enjoy!

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By WDSF Communications on 14 May 2016 16:25