Cebuano international dancesport adjudicator Kurt Buenconsejo conquers the global stage

CEBU, Philippines — Decorated Cebuano ballroom dance expert Dr. Kurt Namare Buenconsejo from the municipality of Dalaguete in southern Cebu is making waves globally, this time as a judge in two major ballroom championships in the United States in a shining addition to his plethora of accomplishments.

Invited to the 35th Maryland DanceSport Championship in Baltimore on February 3 and the 35th Emerald Ball Dancesport Championship in Los Angeles from April 30 to May 4, Buenconsejo expresses honor and privilege in being part of the prestigious competitions.

“I feel honored and privileged to be invited to judge two such prestigious two international ballroom competitions,“ said  Buenconsejo, the first Cebuano to be invited as international adjudicator in the two big events.

Buenconsejo’s grandmother Jovita Namare greatly influenced his journey into ballroom dancing.

The 11th child of Marlyn Namare and Floro Buenconsejo Jr. embarked on a remarkable odyssey inspired by Jovita’s fame. Stories of military men fetching her grandmother and her dance partner for performances kindled a passionate fire within Buenconsejo, propelling him towards the resplendent world of ballroom dancing.

“My grandma was my muse in ballroom dancing. I was captivated every time she recounted her days of privilege and fame due to her exceptional dancing skills,” shared Kurt, now an international dancesport adjudicator currently in New York.

It was, however, under the guidance of his uncle Vilmer Namare during his early days at Saint Mary’s Academy that his skills and talent flourished. His very supportive uncle known as “Kulapito” imparted to him invaluable lessons that transformed mundane Physical Education classes into stages of excellence, showcasing not only his skill but also his talent in choreography and execution.

Upon entering the University of San Carlos (USC) in Cebu City for his college education, Kurt delved into the world of professional dance. A bar co-owned by his uncle Peter and where his uncle Kulapito worked as a ballroom dance instructor became his sanctuary and training ground.

Under his uncle Kulapito’s vigilant eye, Kurt honed his skills, leading to a life-changing encounter with James Uy,the owner of Profoods Company. “I became Sir James’s dance partner due to my grace and femininity. My swift spins enhanced his performance, allowing us to showcase our routines, especially during dynamic moves like swings. After our dance, he generously rewarded me with a tip of P1,000. Overwhelmed with joy, tears welled up in my eyes; I had earned P1,000 for just one dance,” shared Kurt, reflecting on this pivotal moment.

With graceful footwork, Kurt mesmerized Uy, paving the way for exhibitions and performances. Appreciation wasn’t merely in applause but also in monetary form, marking the start of a promising journey. “So, I kept coming back to Jaz and Blu Bar. My Uncle Kulapito introduced me to his regular customers. Fortunately, they appreciated my leading skills. Dancing enabled me to pay for my college tuition fees, allowing me to graduate,” said Kurt.

His dedication knew no bounds. Despite the demands of academic pursuits in Accountancy at USC, he diligently balanced studies and his passion for dance. Evenings were reserved for perfecting his art, creating a seamless blend of academics and artistry. Challenges arose, leading to a shift to Management Accounting, adapting to the demands of both worlds.

In 2009, Kurt’s talent transcended borders. Invited to the La Danzare Diva DanceSport Competition in Singapore, he showcased his prowess, securing the third spot in the showdance category. This triumph was a stepping stone to a series of victories:champion in the 2011 USC Intramurals followed by a third-place finish in the Third Kind dancesport competition in Makati City the same year.  His achievements continued to multiply. Buenconsejo won 3rd place at the 3rd Kind tilt in Makati City in 2014, champion in Butuan City Invitational 3rd World dancesport competition 2014, 2nd place in the 2018 3rd Kind dancesport competition in Singapore, and 2nd place in the 2019 Latin M2M dancesport event in Thailand.

Aside from competing, Beunconsejo also served as judge in the 2019 World Open Grand Prix Ballroom Championship in Taiwan and in the 2023 KDO World Cup 2023 in Korea.

Buenconsejo punctuated his journey with milestones. He earned his National Certificate II in Performing Arts Ballroom Dancing from TESDA in 2014, solidifying his expertise. The years that followed saw him grace international stages, adjudicating competitions in Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Taiwan, Australia, Korea, and even in England.

His expertise wasn’t confined to adjudication. He became a revered teacher, imparting ballroom Latin techniques in various Philippine provinces since 2014 and in Asian countries since 2016. In 2019, Kurt attended the prestigious UKA Congress of Professional Dance Teachers in Blackpool, England, marking another significant achievement.

His expertise expanded further as he graduated with a Master’s degree in Business Management at the University of Cebu (UC) and assumed the role of University Business Teacher at Cebu Technological University in 2021. He also made his mark in education as the former Regional Sports Coordinator of the Visayas in the Commission on Higher Education, working closely with universities and colleges across 16 provinces.

With a PhD in Business and Management, a reputation as an international adjudicator and performer, Buenconsejo stands as a testament to passion, perseverance, and the transformative power of dance. From cherished tales of his grandmother to the global stages he graces, his journey echoes melodies of dedication and triumph, reminding us of the extraordinary heights achievable through the art of dance. — (FREEMAN)