Charles Chocolates Dancin’ Dynamites officially launched its 18th season on January 10 in Mandela Park, Half-Way Tree in Kingston.

The long-running competition continues to provide a platform for the Jamaican youth to accelerate them into the international stage and offer opportunities to display their talents.

This season’s theme: ‘Raving Machine’, promises to feature a range of dance styles, choreography and talent across the country, with the selected dance teams vying for the coveted title, $400,000 plus in cash from title sponsor Charles Chocolates.

The grand prizes include a chance to embark on a thrilling tour with recording artiste, Roger ‘Razor B’ Cassup in Canada as well as to perform at the prestigious Florida Jerk Festival in the United States, marking a historic moment in the competition’s legacy.

The television premiere of the first of four elimination shows began in Mandela Park on February 17 and is set to captivate audiences on February 24 at 8:30 pm, airing exclusively on TVJ. The remaining weekly televised eliminations for Falmouth Square, Mandeville, and Sam Sharpe Square will air every Saturday through March 16th, respectively. The competition finale is scheduled to air live on June 1st.

Charles Chocolates’ brand manager, Tiffany Simmonds, expressed the company’s enthusiasm for the show, stating, “We are pleased to be part of this journey in connecting youths with the international dance arena and foster a sense of community amongst dancers. This year is packed with opportunities for the competitors and will be a season like no other.”

Executive producer for Dancin’ Dynamites, Jennifer ‘Jenny Jenny’ Small, emphasised the competition’s impact on Jamaican culture.

“We are committed to the culture and the change we’ve made through Dancin’ Dynamites. Through this competition, dancers have had the opportunity to travel and share the culture worldwide,” she said.