“From Niigata to the World”: BYU Cougarettes and Chibi Unity Build Bridges Through Dance

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The BYU Cougarettes, visiting from the United States, are one of America’s most decorated collegiate dance teams. But in Niigata, their story quickly became one of connection. They represent Brigham Young University in Utah, which is supported by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Founded in 1946, the Cougarettes are known for precision, discipline, and excellence in jazz and hip-hop. In April 2026, the team captured first place in the hip-hop division at the National Collegiate Dance Championship—bringing their total to 27 national championship titles.

The 24 Cougarettes traveled to Japan with their coaches, Stacy Bills and Morgan St. Pierre, and BYU Advancement Vice President Keith Vorkink, as part of an exchange celebrating a shared love of dance.

Even while touring, team members maintain habits that shape their experience off the stage. Each day begins with a brief devotional, where dancers share messages, followed by a group prayer. As Vorkink noted, “Cougarettes are devout disciples of Jesus Christ and their love of him motivates all that they do.” Despite the demands of near-daily rehearsals and performances, each dancer is also a full-time university student.

Chibi Unity, based in Niigata, Japan, presents a different but equally compelling story. Formed in 2017 under the theme “From Niigata to the World,” the group has grown into a large-scale youth movement with dancers ranging from children to young adults.

Although a relatively new group, Chibi Unity has already earned significant international acclaim. The team has won multiple awards at the VIBE Dance Competition and achieved first place in the world at World of Dance. In the junior division, they secured four consecutive championships, and in the adult division, they won the title in their very first appearance. In addition, Chibi Unity received the Golden Buzzer on America’s Got Talent, Got Talent España, and India’s Got Talent for three consecutive years. They also achieved an impressive runner-up finish in Spain.

In many ways, the two teams share the same global stage—and even a sense of competition. Both strive to perform at the highest level and be among the best in the world, though their paths differ.

The Cougarettes represent a selective university program rooted in technical training, discipline, and precision. Chibi Unity reflects a community-based model that brings together dancers in a distinctly Japanese fusion style that is expressive, creative, and ever evolving.

Yet on May 29, 2026, when the groups met for the first time at the Suga Dance Innovation Studio in Niigata, those differences quickly faded. As dancers shared their styles, barriers gave way to smiles, movement, and music. Small groups formed as dancers exchanged ideas, encouraged one another, and learned side by side.

The day blended structure and creativity. Both groups participated in physical conditioning, followed by dancer-led workshops. As collaboration deepened, they created a joint performance piece to present the following day.

For the visiting coaches, the experience was both meaningful and memorable. “We had a wonderful experience… said Bills and St. Pierre, describing Chibi Unity as “so friendly… so kind and welcoming. And incredible dancers.” Reflecting on the connection, they added, “When we danced together, it didn’t matter that we couldn’t speak the same language. Dance brought us together.” They noted the challenge and growth as well: “We felt very pushed… and our dancers woke up very sore the next morning… but very happy.”

The collaboration continued May 30 at the Konan Ward Cultural Hall in Niigata. The 90-minute program featured performances by both groups and concluded with their joint piece. Approximately 400 attendees—including dancers, family members, friends, local Church members, and the public—gathered for the event. The program was sponsored by Bourbon Corporation.

For Chibi Unity, the experience also had special meaning. Bunta Kawashima, the Chibi Unity producer, shared that while the group has collaborated internationally, hosting the Cougarettes in Niigata was unique. “Through dance… we quickly became one,” he said, adding, “We look forward to more collaborations in the future.”

Within just two days, what began as a meeting between two elite teams became personal. As Vorkink observed, “It has been remarkable to see them come together so quickly and enjoy teaching each other.”

With a shared love of dance, connections formed quickly and then deepened.

The May 29–30 collaboration between the BYU Cougarettes and Chibi Unity in Niigata marked the beginning of an ongoing relationship. As future opportunities emerge, both groups anticipate continued exchanges where dancers can learn, create, and perform together—creating space for greater understanding, lasting friendships, and unity across cultures, languages and experiences.

For more about the BYU Cougarettes and Chibi Unity, see social media posts at:

• https://www.instagram.com/byucougarettes/
• https://www.instagram.com/chibiunity_official/