Annika Verplancke, a talented Belgian-American dancer, first gained international attention with her stunning performance at the Youth America Grand Prix European semi-finals in Paris.
At just 13 years old, she delivered an unforgettable routine that seamlessly combined two iconic dance forms—ballet and hip-hop.
Set to “Heart Cry” by Drehz and choreographed by Magali Berael and Fundi Omari, her performance continues to captivate audiences.
What made Annika’s routine unique was her fusion of two drastically different dance styles.
Dressed in a hybrid costume, one side representing classical ballet and the other side hip-hop, she showcased her versatility as a dancer.
Ballet is known for its grace, discipline, and centuries-old tradition.
On the other hand, hip-hop is a more contemporary and improvisational style, rooted in street dance.
The contrast between these two forms was made even more dramatic by Annika’s seamless transitions between them, reflecting both the control required for ballet and the rhythmic expression of hip-hop.
Her performance, which has amassed over 8.8 million views on YouTube, continues to resonate with dance lovers today.
It’s impossible to choose a clear “winner” between the two styles, and perhaps that’s part of the magic.
The video leaves viewers in awe, inspiring both lovers of classical ballet and fans of modern hip-hop alike.
Since that viral moment, Annika Verplancke’s career has flourished.
Having trained at esteemed institutions like the Ecole Supérieure de Danse de Cannes Rosella Hightower and The Juilliard School in New York City, she has continued to make a name for herself in the dance world.
Her skill and versatility as a dancer surely mean she’ll remain a respected figure in the industry.
Her blend of ballet and hip-hop also speaks to a broader trend in dance, where traditional and contemporary styles often intersect.
Ballet, with its classical roots in the royal courts of France, requires years of rigorous training and embodies a structured approach to movement.
In contrast, hip-hop, which originated in the streets of New York City in the 1970s, is defined by its freedom, improvisation, and expressive nature.
Both styles demand incredible technical ability, but they offer dancers different ways to tell a story.
In a world where dance styles continue to evolve and influence each other, routines like Annika’s remind us of the endless possibilities for creativity.
More dancers are blending classical techniques with modern styles, breaking barriers and reimagining what dance can be.
Whether on stage or on social media, dancers today are finding ways to express themselves that challenge traditional boundaries
For Annika, this creative blending reflects her philosophy.
In interviews, she has expressed how important it is to embrace change and explore new directions in dance.
She has also adapted to the digital world, utilizing platforms like Instagram to stay connected with the dance community and reach new audiences.
Social media has become a tool for dancers to showcase their work, collaborate, and stay creative, no matter where they are in the world.