New Zealand Street Dance

Street Candee and Candee Collective are highly influential entities that have significantly shaped New Zealand's commercial dance scene and played a crucial role in its street dance history. They function as a dynamic dance family and umbrella organization, showcasing incredible talent, championing diverse styles, and engaging deeply with the community. Their impact extends from professional stage performances and commercial work to fostering grassroots street dance culture and empowering artists.

History and Place in New Zealand Dance

The foundation of this powerhouse dates back to Rina Chae's return to New Zealand in 2013. Having spent six years dancing professionally in Los Angeles, performing with global artists such as Beyoncé, Chris Brown, Ne-Yo, and Justin Bieber, Chae brought a wealth of international experience and a new level of professionalism to the local commercial dance industry.¹ She was inspired by Janet Jackson, whom she considered the "ultimate female icon," noting a "lacking" in the New Zealand dance scene. Chae sought to elevate its standards, transforming what often felt like "background stuff" into an art form demanding respect and artistic integrity.

Under Rina Chae's visionary direction, Street Candee quickly established itself as New Zealand's premier female dance company. Composed of twelve strong and versatile female dancers, their signature style is an "unapologetic mix of sultry Hip Hop, Burlesque, and Jazz Funk moves," earning them the memorable, albeit audacious, nickname "the Kiwi version of the Pussy Cat Dolls."

Beyond dazzling performances, Street Candee and Candee Collective are deeply committed to female empowerment. This purpose was powerfully demonstrated in their "Flawless: Female & Artists Empowerment Concert" in December 2015. The concert aimed to reveal the inner struggles of female entertainers, taking a strong stance against unspoken social issues such as domestic violence, self-devaluation, and "tall poppy syndrome" (where successful individuals are resented or criticized). By using dance for impactful social commentary, they fostered empathy and encouraged self-acceptance.

Their initial successes quickly catapulted them into the national spotlight, demonstrating their ability to adapt their art for diverse audiences and grand stages. Angelika Zueva, an original member of Street Candee, noted that the New Zealand dance industry was relatively small and close-knit, fostering strong connections where talent was noticed quickly. This environment, combined with Street Candee's professionalism and mission, allowed them to secure major opportunities rapidly.

The organization organically expanded, leading to the formation of the Candee Collective. This serves as a broader umbrella for distinct subunits, including the original Street Candee, Candee Waackers, and House of Candee. This structure allows for both a wider scope and deeper specialization in various street styles while maintaining a unified collective identity.

Shaping Street Styles in New Zealand

Candee Collective embraces a diverse spectrum of dance styles, demonstrating their versatility and commitment to the broader dance landscape, and significantly impacting the growth and understanding of these forms in New Zealand.

Waacking: A core element, led by the Candee Waackers subunit. This expressive style from 1970s LA LGBTQ+ clubs involves rapid arm movements, intricate posing, and theatricality, typically performed to disco funk. Rina Chae's role as the Mother of Imperial House of Waacking (New Zealand chapter) is pivotal. This isn't just a title; it signifies her leadership in authenticating and disseminating the style's history and technique. By actively hosting community events and battles for rookies, Candee Waackers are directly responsible for nurturing a new generation of Waacking dancers in New Zealand, ensuring the style's growth beyond a niche interest. Other prominent members specializing in Waacking include Angelika Zueva, Sarah Reece, Heidi Chen, Peggy Yao, Earl De Castro, David Fung, Timothy "TJ" Romero, and Eramiha "Hina" Abrams.
Vogue: This highly stylized modern house dance, originating from late 1980s Harlem ballroom, has a dedicated home within the collective via the House of Candee subunit.² Their commitment ensures Vogue, with its dramatic poses and sharp movements, is taught and performed with cultural understanding and respect for its origins. Members like Peggy Yao and Heidi Chen, noted as a "Vogue extraordinaire," are crucial educators and performers. Earl De Castro also makes significant contributions to Voguing. Hina Givenchy (Eramiha Abrams) is a prominent ballroom performer and member of the Audacious House of Givenchy, showcasing her "FQ Energy" and "Soft" ballroom style.³ Their engagement with the local ballroom scene is vital for fostering this specific cultural and artistic expression in New Zealand.
Krump: The collective's inclusion of Krumpers like Mosiana Webster (Nyxx, Deuce Red, Deuce Adrenaline Rush) within their "dynamic dance family" signifies their embrace of raw, expressive, and impactful street dance cultures. This inclusion helps to keep the vibrant and energetic Krump scene alive and thriving in New Zealand.
House Dance: By offering free House Dance Workshops as part of the "Ladies of Hip Hop Weekend," they actively promote accessibility and exposure to House dance, a foundational street style, encouraging broader participation and understanding.

Commercial and Classic Dance Styles

Commercial Dance Styles: While their overarching focus encompasses Hip Hop, Burlesque, and Jazz Funk for commercial performances, their influence extends to elevating the professionalism and artistic integrity of these styles within the broader dance industry. Rina Chae's international experience brought a new standard to commercial choreography in NZ.
Heels: A highly popular and technically demanding style, Heels involves unique balance, strength, and confidence, mixing jazz, Hip Hop, and commercial styles with a distinct feminine flair.⁴ Their dedicated Heels Camps and intensive weeks, with regular classes taught by choreographers like Rina Chae, Emma-Kate Putnam, Sarah Reece, and Alexandra Page, are instrumental in professionalizing and popularizing this specific genre within NZ's commercial dance landscape. Their focus on "polishing the floor with heels tech ladies" underscores their dedication to technical precision and safety in this challenging style.
Other Styles: The individual members' mastery in a broader range of styles, including jazz, ballet, contemporary, and urban choreography, highlights the comprehensive training and versatility within the collective, allowing for cross-pollination of techniques and ideas that enrich the overall New Zealand dance scene.

Performances & Notable Dancers: A Chronological Journey

Street Candee and Candee Collective boast an extensive performance history, engaging with major public, theatrical, and commercial events. The individual journeys and talents of their dancers are also a testament to the collective's impact and the opportunities it creates.

Notable Dancers and Their Contributions:

Angelika Zueva: An original Street Candee member. After moving to Los Angeles, her career took an unexpected turn when she tore her ACL, requiring a nine to 12-month recovery period. This setback led to significant life lessons, including gratitude for a healthy body, the power of communication, realizing challenges are temporary, and understanding that passion doesn't define identity. Through her friend's advice, she stayed involved by assisting top LA choreographer King Chris on major dance jobs like The Four, Soul Train Awards, Teen Choice Awards, and the iHeart Radio Festival. She was also a lead dancer at Coca Cola Christmas in the Park (2018) and New Zealand's premier cabaret show, Encore. She was involved in K-Pop Showdown in 2021 and choreographic submissions for K-Pop artists.
Emma-Kate Putnam: Joined Street Candee at 17.⁵ She danced professionally in New York and Los Angeles, training with industry leaders like Yanis Marshall, Jessica Castro, Luam Keflezgy, Kennis Marquis, Galen Hooks, and Richard Jackson.⁶ Her credits include dancing in projects for Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, Meghan Trainor, and Paula Abdul. She returned to New Zealand during the pandemic and has been actively choreographing, teaching workshops, and judging competitions. She performed at the FIFA World Cup Opening Ceremony (2015) and FIFA World Cup U20/230 (2016), with Rina Chae as choreographer.
Heidi Chen: Trained at the Chinese Military Academy of Arts in Beijing from age nine in Ballet and Chinese dance, showcasing unparalleled discipline and versatility. She holds diplomas in Dance, Dance Teaching, and Modern Theatre Arts. She excels in Hip Hop, Vogue, Contemporary, Commercial, and House. She has worked as a skeleton crew dancer and assistant choreographer for famous K-Pop bands like Twice, XG, Cherry Bullet, AOA, and Cosmo Girls. Heidi performed with Street Candee Dance Company at Mystic Games-Sky City (2017) and Christmas In The Park (2016).⁷ She also danced in the "Flawless" concert (2015).
Grace Stevens: A multi-talented dancer for Street Candee, trained in jazz, ballet, heels, Hip Hop, and contemporary.⁸ She won second at the Jazz World Championships with the MEBA troupe in 2015 and 2017. She expanded into street styles like voguing and house and works with Les Mills, assisting top choreographer Galen Hooks in Los Angeles.
Natasha Katavich: Known as Lady T in the popping community. She is a Moulin Rouge Paris dancer. She has performed as a SkyCity Showgirl and for Riviera Boats NZ, Huawei, and Hannah Fang Shows with Street Candee. She danced in Jordan Gavet's 'Do Better' music video with Street Candee.
Alexandra Page: A multifaceted and captivating dancer for Candee Collective, she choreographs their Monday classes, hosts community events, and is a respected judge for Locking at Ladies of Hip Hop NZ.
Kirsten Ocampo: A dancer for Street Candee and also the Director of The Blank Kanvas. Her mission is to raise awareness about mental health through movement, connecting dance to well-being and social commentary. She danced in Sachi's "Hollywood Angel" music video (2018) and was an X-Factor NZ Dancer in 2015.
David Fung: A skilled dance artist and choreographer for Candee Collective. He was a dancer and choreographer for Christmas in the Park, K-Fest Kpop Show Auckland Trusts Arena, and Auckland Festival 'Kpop Party'.
Earl De Castro: A wonderfully vibrant Waacker in Auckland, known for exceptional character and sass. He is noted for significant contributions to both Waacking and Voguing, including his acclaimed work "Liberate-He." He performed at NZ Breakers Half Time, Christmas in The Park, and Auckland Kpop Festival with Rina Chae.

Major Public, Theatrical, and Commercial Performances (Chronological):

2013: Performed as dancers on X Factor Season 1. Danced for Encore Cabaret.
2014: Appeared as Cafe Patrons on Power Rangers. Dancers/models for Fashion in the Park.
2015: Released the Street Candee Launch Video. Guest performed on X Factor Season 2 for Savage ft. Timmy Trumpet and Ricky Martin, choreographed by Rina Chae. Performed at the FIFA World Cup Opening Ceremony, choreographed by Rina Chae. Presented "Flawless: Female & Artists Empowerment Concert." The Street Candee Dance Company performed at Auckland’s first Puawai Festival, raising awareness for HIV/AIDS.
2016: Danced for FIFA World Cup 230, choreographed by Rina Chae. Heidi Chen performed at Tempo Festival.
2017: Performed with Street Candee Dance Company at Mystic Games-Sky City. Heidi Chen was a guest performer at the K-Culture Festival and Da-Bang World Tour.⁹
2018: Rina Chae and the Street Candee Dance Company performed at the Netball Quad Series at Spark Arena, bringing an "underground disco funk" vibe. Angelika Zueva, David Fung, Earl De Castro, and Heidi Chen were involved in Coca Cola Christmas in the Park. Kirsten Ocampo danced in Sachi's "Hollywood Angel" Music Video. Heidi Chen danced in Valkyrie's "Good Thing" and Rei's "Good Mood" Music Videos.
2019: Earl De Castro performed at the Auckland Kpop Festival with Rina Chae.
2020: Emma-Kate Putnam danced in Lady Gaga's 'Rain on Me' ft. Ariana Grande, Meghan Trainor's 'Wave', KSI's 'Wake Up Call', and Sweet Mix Kids' 'Waste My Time' music videos. Heidi Chen choreographed The Blank Kanvas.
2021: Angelika Zueva was involved in K-Pop Showdown, New Zealand’s biggest live K-Pop event. Jonathan Leung performed at K-Festival with Street Candee.
2022: Emma-Kate Putnam danced and choreographed in Alya Jade's 'I Tōnā Wā' Music Video. House of Givenchy members performed at Unity Ball and Kata Ball.¹⁰
2023: House of Givenchy members performed at House of Aitu Thirst Trap Ball and BK2SCHOOL KIKI BALL.
2024: Candee Collective welcomed attendees to Lychee Baybee.
2025: Candee Collective performed with artist Venice Qin at Big Gay Out events. They were deeply involved in LADIES OF HIP HOP AOTEAROA (LOHH NZ) 2025, with subunits and individual dancers participating and judging.

Commercial and Music Video Work:

Beyond live stage shows, their presence extends to numerous commercials for KFC NZ, 0.0% DB Export, TVNZ, Samsung Galaxy S7, The Warehouse, and even the iconic Air New Zealand MIB safety video. They are also go-to collaborators for music videos for both local and international artists, including Jordan Gavet's 'Do Better', Sachi's 'Hollywood Angel', Vallkyrie's 'Queen', and Bels Music's 'One Time'. This diverse portfolio highlights their versatility and significant presence in the entertainment industry.

Empowering Through Workshops and Training

Candee Collective offers various workshops and training, often in conjunction with En Beat Dance Academy, which Rina Chae co-directs. These initiatives are crucial for skill development and community building.

Heels Camp/Classes: They host highly sought-after "Heels Camps" and regular intermediate/advanced heels classes taught by experienced choreographers like Rina Chae, Emma-Kate Putnam, Sarah Reece, and Alexandra Page.
House Dance Workshop: A free House Dance Workshop was offered as part of the "Ladies of Hip Hop" weekend, promoting accessibility and exposure to different styles.
Waacking Class: Rina Chae actively teaches Waacking classes.¹² En Beat Dance Academy offers dedicated Waacking classes for various skill levels (Kids, Beginner, Int/Adv Open Level), fostering the growth of this specific style.¹³
Mentorship: Street Candee has a robust mentorship program. Angelika Zueva specifically credits working with Rina Chae in a mentorship program as a turning point in her career, emphasizing the personal and professional development opportunities provided.
Ladies of Hip Hop Aotearoa (LOHH NZ): This annual festival, co-presented by Rina Chae and En Beat Dance Academy, is a cornerstone event.¹⁴ It features workshops by international trailblazers and homegrown talent, significantly contributing to the knowledge and skill base of the New Zealand dance community. LOHH NZ is dedicated to celebrating the mana, talent, and leadership of women and girls in Hip Hop culture, providing a vital platform for connection, creativity, and intergenerational empowerment.¹⁵

Dominance in Dance Battle Events and Tournament Prowess

Candee Collective's dancers actively participate and achieve significant success in dance battle events, further solidifying their impact on the street dance community and showcasing their competitive edge. Their presence in these events not only highlights individual talent but also raises the profile of specific street dance styles within New Zealand.

Ladies of Hip Hop (LOHH) NZ: Candee Collective is deeply involved in LOHH NZ, a festival that includes dance battles across diverse street styles, including Waacking. Eramiha Abrams (Hina Givenchy), a member of Candee Collective and Candee Waackers, won the female figure performance category at LOHH NZ, highlighting their competitive prowess. Alexandra Page served as a judge for Locking at LOHH NZ 2025, demonstrating their leadership and expertise in evaluating high-level street dance.
Imperial House of Waacking NZ (IHOW NZ): Candee Collective is deeply intertwined with IHOW NZ, a collective that has been instrumental in the resurgence of Waacking in New Zealand. Rina Chae serves as its Mother and a judge for battles, actively shaping the development and standards of Waacking in the country. Alexandra Page acts as an MC for IHOW NZ battles, playing a vital role in community events. Earl De Castro performed an "Iconic opening" at IHOW NZ, showcasing the high caliber of their performers. A significant achievement illustrating their dominance, IHOW NZ secured 1st Place in the Team Division at World of Dance New Zealand in both 2024 and 2025, a testament to their exceptional teamwork, synchronized execution, and deep understanding of the Waacking style. They have also showcased at Battlezone, further cementing their reputation in the battle scene.
Waacking Battles: Beyond IHOW NZ, they actively organize and participate in Waacking battles like "Love To Love You Valentine Waacking Battles" for rookies, fostering new talent and providing accessible platforms for dancers to gain battle experience. Earl De Castro's participation at "The Australian Waack Tournament" demonstrates their regional influence and commitment to cross-Tasman engagement. Jaydess Nand, a foundational figure in NZ Waacking, holds impressive accolades, being the Waacking champion from Unleash The Beast 2015 Australia and a semi-finalist (top 4) at Waack Fest LA, USA in 2015, highlighting the international recognition of dancers associated with the collective.¹⁶
Red Bull Dance Your Style NZ: Dancers from Candee Collective have consistently competed in this high-profile all-styles competition, showcasing their versatility across various street dance forms. Heidi Chen, Peggy Yao, and Earl De Castro competed in the event in May 2023, proving their ability to adapt and excel in diverse battle formats. Rina Chae's role as the Dance Liaison for Red Bull 'Dance Your Style' in 2023 further integrated Waacking into mainstream competitive dance, ensuring its authentic representation and increasing its visibility.
Other Competitive Successes: Members of Candee Collective's subunits are noted for broader competitive success across different dance genres. David Fung achieved 1st at SDNZ Mega Crew 2017 and 4th at HHI 2016 & 2017 USA, demonstrating their prowess in major international hip hop competitions. Grace Stevens won second at the Jazz World Championships with the MEBA troupe in 2015 & 2017, showcasing their diverse talents beyond street styles.¹⁷ Stacy Meng (Baby XIII), a versatile young dancer whose competitive success reflects the caliber of dancers influenced by entities like Candee Collective, won the Youth Division - All Styles at Step Ya Game Up 2023 in New York City, excelling in popping, locking, waacking, and Krump. This international victory underscores the global impact of Candee Collective's training and influence on emerging New Zealand dancers.