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The Graffiti Dancers won the Free 2 Speak dance competition Sunday night at Norris. The winner of the competition, hosted by the Christian dance group VITAL, was judged by audience applause, Apollo-style. The real winner, however, was a local high school student.

“Half of the proceeds go to a child who wants to dance, has a passion for dance, but can’t afford to take dance classes,” said Jená Lowe, president of VITAL.

The three competing groups — Graffiti Dancers, NAYO Dance Ensemble and Deeva Dance Troupe — were judged on how well their first piece upheld the theme of social injustice, and on one other piece from their repertoire. About 30 people attended the event.

As non-competitors, VITAL took the stage first with a piece about homelessness. Businessmen and -women holding newspapers ignored three protesting beggars throughout the piece.

The other teams’ pieces expressed themes such as tolerance, respect and loss.

The Graffiti Dancers’ winning performance, titled “Unearthed,” was filled with leaps and jumps, showcasing their aggressive, modern dance style.

Lowe said that she was inspired to invite the other dance groups so the event would attract a diverse audience. The groups agreed.

“We were invited in November, and we, of course, said ‘yes’ because it’s for charity and it’s a chance to showcase out talent,” said Medill senior Deepa Seetharaman, of the Deeva Dance Troupe.

The show’s message, of helping a needy student, was heard loud and clear by Communication senior Lauren Robinson, who watched the performance.

She said, “I really appreciate the fact that VITAL has decided to use their art for good and to help a worthy cause.”