Local teen sensation Mason ‘Beasty’ Booysen, has captivated the nation by winning the Red Bull Dance Your Style South Africa 2024 National Final in front of an enthusiastic hometown crowd at the Boardwalk Mall in Gqeberha. His victory means he will represent South Africa at the Red Bull Dance Your Style World Final in Mumbai, India, this November.
Despite his youth, Beasty’s journey to the top has been anything but easy. Raised in Klein Skool, a tough neighbourhood known for its challenges, Booysen has used dance as an outlet and a way to rise above adversity.
“I started dancing when I was three years old. There was a mega crew rehearsing in my mom’s garage. Watching them made me say, ‘I want to do that too.’ That’s where it all started for me.”
he recalls
A Dream Realised on Home Soil
The road to national glory began at the Gqeberha regional qualifier, where Booysen’s performances wowed both challengers and spectators. In the national final, his blend of Amapiano and hip-hop styles stood out in the high-energy dance battles, earning him the crowd’s vote.
“It feels incredible. I’m proud of myself for making everyone else proud.”
said Booysen, moments after his win over Cwenga in a tight-fought final battle
“I was really nervous on stage, but my brother told me not to hold back, and that’s what pushed me to give it my all,”.
he said
Booysen’s parents were also present to support him, further motivating the young dancer to claim the top spot.
Preparing for the World Stage
Now, with the national title in hand, Beasty is setting his sights on the global stage.
“I’m going to rehearse every single day until I’m worn out. This isn’t a joke—I want to work hard and make South Africa proud in Mumbai.”
he said confidently
The Red Bull Dance Your Style competition is renowned for its unique format, where dancers are required to freestyle to unexpected music tracks spanning genres like hip-hop, funk, and pop, with no choreography and no judges—only the audience’s reaction decides the winner.
A Rising Star to Watch
Mason ‘Beasty’ Booysen‘s win is a victory for him and his community. Growing up in a challenging environment, he has used dance to rise above, and now, at just 17, he will have the chance to showcase his talent on a global platform.
Booysen’s journey from the streets of Klain School to representing South Africa internationally proves that with talent and determination, anything is possible. His inspiring story and undeniable talent are sure to make him a crowd favourite when he competes in Mumbai on 9 November 2024.
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