Hoop dancer wins competition

American Indian performer takes top prize at contestGroups and individuals competed in the first International Dance Competition, sponsored by the Jacobson House Native Art Center, the University of Oklahoma School of Dance and the OU School of Music. Each dance was introduced by a cultural ambassador, and after the performances audience members voted for their favorite.

Taking the $1,000 top prize was American Indian hoop dancer Kevin Connywerdy (Comanche/Kiowa). Connywerdy, who also opened the competition with a tribute dance to American Indian artist Jack Hokeah, formed various shapes with the hoops while keeping in step with the drum beats.