Walsh Judges International Dance Championships in Italy

Sherry Walsh is making her mark as a national judge for the International Dance Organization (IDO) at the World Championships in Italy, where she assesses talent from around the globe. Over the course of this week, she will evaluate performances from 2,400 dancers representing 36 countries. Walsh’s extensive experience, which includes judging at nine competitions since 2016, allows her to appreciate the diverse talent on display.

Walsh, a former dance studio owner from Sault Ste. Marie and graduate of Mount St. Joseph College, has traveled to various countries including Poland, Germany, and Prague for similar competitions. She describes the atmosphere at these events as exhilarating, stating, “When something is good, the time flies. The level of talent is just over the roof.”

As one of only nine judges at the event, Walsh will assess a range of performances, including solos, duos, and group formations across multiple genres such as improvisation and show dance. The age of competitors spans from seven to 50, showcasing a wide range of experience and skill levels.

Communication with dancers, coaches, and trainers is restricted during the competition, allowing judges to focus solely on their evaluations. “You can talk about everything else,” Walsh noted, “but dance is off-limits.” Many of her fellow judges share her background in dance, having previously owned their own studios. Walsh believes that this experience enhances their judging capabilities: “You can’t be a great judge if you haven’t had the experience of working with all the different age groups.”

Beyond the competitive aspect, Walsh is impressed by the camaraderie among dancers. “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. Despite language barriers, the universal language of dance fosters understanding. “Everybody understands a smile,” she added. “Just being immersed in that atmosphere raises your heart. It’s so awesome to see it.”

Prior to the pandemic, Walsh taught part-time at Studio Dance Arts after closing her studio but has since shifted her career. She now works as a physician assistant to Dr. Christine Macie. Following her achievements, she was inducted into the Sault Ste. Marie Walk of Fame in 2019, recognizing her contributions to the dance community.

As the World Championships continue, Walsh remains committed to celebrating the art of dance and the talent of its performers, affirming that the experience is both rewarding and uplifting.