Sherry Walsh Lights Up IDO World Championships with Expert Judging

Sherry Walsh, a former dance studio owner from Sault Ste. Marie, is currently judging at the International Dance Organization (IDO) World Championships in Italy, where she evaluates talent from around the globe. Walsh, representing Canada, is one of nine judges at the event, which features an impressive lineup of 2,400 dancers from 36 countries. The Championships showcase a variety of performances, including solos, duos, and group formations across several dance genres.

Having assessed talent at nine competitions since 2016, Walsh brings extensive experience to her role. She has traveled to countries such as Poland, Germany, and the Czech Republic to judge competitions, and her current commitment in Italy underscores her dedication to the art of dance. “When something is good, the time flies,” Walsh remarked in a recent interview. “The level of talent is just over the roof.”

Judging in a Unique Atmosphere

At the World Championships, competitors range in age from seven to 50, adding a diverse dynamic to the performances. Walsh is tasked with evaluating numerous dance styles, including improvisation and show dance. However, communication with dancers, coaches, and trainers is strictly off-limits during the event. Walsh noted that she can engage in conversation about non-dance topics with her fellow judges during meal breaks, fostering camaraderie among them.

Many of Walsh’s peers also have backgrounds in owning dance studios. “You can’t be a great judge if you haven’t had the experience of working with all the different age groups,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of understanding the various stages of a dancer’s development.

Global Unity Through Dance

The sense of community among dancers from different nations is a highlight of the competition for Walsh. She is particularly struck by the goodwill and camaraderie that transcends language barriers. “Everybody comes together for the simple and common purpose, and that’s to share their love, passion, and joy for the art of dance,” she explained. “It’s fantastic to see that nothing else matters. We’re all there to appreciate the excellence of each other.”

Even when competitors do not speak the same language, the universal gestures of a smile, handshake, or applause create connections. “Just being immersed in that atmosphere raises your heart. It’s so awesome to see it,” Walsh added.

Before her current role, Walsh taught part-time at Studio Dance Arts after closing her studio. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, she has transitioned to working as a physician assistant to Dr. Christine Macie, showcasing her versatility and commitment to supporting others.

The IDO World Championships not only highlight exceptional talent but also foster a spirit of unity and celebration of dance. For Walsh, the experience is a testament to the power of this art form to bring people together, regardless of their backgrounds.