Young dancer from North Preston, N.S., headed to Ireland for 2026 Dance World Cup

10-year-old Elayce Clayton is gearing up for one of the world’s largest dance competitions.

No matter where she is, you can bet 10-year-old Elayce Clayton will stun the crowd with her magic moves.

It’s a passion her mother Shykia says developed at a young age.

“She’s been dancing since she (was) born, to be honest. Like, we have videos of her (at) age two, one, literally dancing and on beat,” she says. “I get speechless. I don’t even know what to even say…I just be thankful to God that this is what I got.”

The dance prodigy loves jazz and contemporary, but says hip hop is her favourite genre.

“I just get to be me,” says Clayton.

Her talent is taking her across the globe to Dublin, Ireland, where she’ll represent Team Canada at the 2026 Dance World Cup.

“It’s the second-largest event in the world. She’s going to be competing with a lot of different dancers from all over the world,” says her mother. “Originally they selected her to come for hip hop and then when she got there, they saw her and then they gave her a solo.”

Clayton says she will feel a range of emotions when she takes the stage in July.

“I’m excited, but I’m also nervous because I have a solo and I’m really scared to do it,” she says.

Her community and hometown of North Preston, N.S., is cheering her on now and for years to come.

“We are so proud. Every day we just thank God for all the blessings and opportunities that are coming forth for her,” says her mother.

As for the future, Clayton’s eyes are already set on a dancing career in Los Angeles.

“That’s where all the famous dancers are and there’s more opportunities there,” she says.

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