New Bedford 9-Year-Old Dancer Reaches Finals of Rhode Island’s ‘The Search’ Competition

Nine-year-old Kennedy Resendes is already making a name for herself on the SouthCoast. Now, she’s taking her talent to an even bigger stage.

The New Bedford native is one of the final contestants in The Search, a local talent competition that pulled performers from across Rhode Island and the SouthCoast. After weeks of performances, the field has been narrowed down to just about 20, and Kennedy is right in the mix as the only contestant from the SouthCoast.

When Kennedy joined The MGM Show, it didn’t take long to see why.

She’s confident, well-spoken, and carries herself like someone well beyond her years, but make no mistake: this rising star has been putting in the work since she was just four years old.

A Passion for Dance at a Young Age

Kennedy trains at the New Bedford Performing Arts Center and dances competitively with Elev8 Dance Company, where she’s built a reputation for her versatility and dedication.

Her favorite style is hip-hop, but don’t box her in.

“I like to do hip hop, but I study all styles,” she said.

That range has already opened doors for her, including opportunities with the Jr. Celtics and Jr. Connecticut Suns dance teams. She’s also a member of the United States Dance and Acro Team and is represented by Bloc Talent Agency.

From Fun 107 to the Final Stage

In a full-circle moment, Kennedy actually discovered The Search through Fun 107.

“I thought this was an amazing opportunity,” she said.

She made the most of it, even teaming up with fellow contestant Joel Carter, a young rapper, for a collaborative finale performance alongside her best friend Vally "Love" Alfonso.

It’s that mix of talent and teamwork that’s helped her stand out in a competition filled with singers, comedians, bands and more.

Big Dreams, Big Moves

As if that wasn’t enough, Kennedy just added another huge accomplishment to her already packed schedule.

READ MORE: The SouthCoast Is Also Rallying Behind Another Incredible Young Local

She recently made the WNBA Connecticut Suns dance team, continuing to chase her dreams one performance at a time.

Not bad for a nine-year-old.

Proud Moment, No Matter the Outcome

Now that performances are complete, the winner will be decided by online voting before being announced at an upcoming soccer game.

As for Kennedy?

“I feel really good and proud of myself,” she said.

Honestly, that says it all. She put herself out there, gave it everything she had, and represented New Bedford in a big way.

If you ask us, that’s already a win.