Dumbarton youngster's happy feet win him spot among UK’s best male dancers

Enthusiastic pupil Caleb Mundie applied to be an ambassador for the National Boys Dance Day initiative.

The showcase aims to recognise and celebrate all the incredible male dancers around the world, from the young boys taking weekly classes at their local school, to the professionals performing on the world’s stage.

His dance teacher Lauren Millar, who owns Believe Dance Academy in the town, said she never expected to hear that he has reached the finals.

She told the Reporter: “The competition has applications from boys from all up and down the country. There is no one else from Glasgow, never mind West Dunbartonshire.

“Caleb has been a member of Believe Dance Academy for four years, and from the first class I could see something very special in him.

“Before I knew it we were travelling the country together competing in major championships and securing a costume sponsorship from Adrenaline costumes.

“His most recent success was making it to the international dance championships final in the Barrowlands Ballroom.”

The 13-year-old is also the only freestyle disco champion who made the cut.

Lauren added: “Not only is he a success at competitions but a great role model for all the boys in the studio.

“Hearing he had made the top 20 boys from all over the UK makes me gleam with pride.

“This is only the beginning for the talented young man.”

Lauren has also started her own boys-only class in Dumbarton to help showcase the young budding male talent and encourage a safe space.

“I have also wanted to give back to the boys because they don’t get enough recognition in dance. It is very hard for them hence why I do the boys-only class.

“I now have boys doing everything from hip hop to gymnastics. They are all really amazing.

“I don’t know of any teachers who have as many boys in their school as I do.”

The boys only class run on Wednesdays from 5-6pm. For more information search Believe Dance Academy on Facebook.