Stardust Dance School shines at regional competition 

Glossop-based Latin and Ballroom dance school, Stardust, took to the floor at Wythenshawe Forum for a regional competition, where the pupils all delivered confident routines across the disciplines.

Pupils of all ages competed alongside their teachers in their respective categories, showcasing their techniques. The event highlighted not only technical ability but also the enthusiasm and dedication that defines the Stardust dancers. 

The day began with Stardust’s five competing juveniles, and despite dance being predominantly female dominated, it was nice to see Stardust standing strong with a balanced mix of boys and girls representing the school. They first performed in the ballroom category, demonstrating their waltz routines, before switching to Latin for an energetic jive. Each dancer took to the floor individually against competitors from across the region. Regardless of results, every pupil danced their heart out and left the floor smiling. 

Competition at these events is always intense, often involving multiple heats before finalists are decided. Despite this, every Stardust juvenile competitor secured at least one trophy, with many achieving two, an impressive testament to their hard work and preparation leading up to the competition. 

In the afternoon, three adult dancers represented Stardust, performing a waltz in the ballroom category and a cha-cha-cha in Latin. Facing strong competition, each dancer rose to the occasion through the heats to each secure a trophy across one of the disciplines. 

Photo: Iolanda Giles who came 1st in the Latin and Ballroom category.

The event concluded with five junior dancers competing across the Bronze, Silver, Gold and Bar categories; one of the most competitive divisions of the day which requires them to showcase a number of ballroom and Latin dance routines. Rising to the challenge, the Stardust juniors delivered standout performances and were duly recognised with multiple trophies. 

By the end of the competition, Stardust had amassed an impressive total of 20 trophies, a huge achievement for the school. Every pupil danced confidently and showed just how hard they had worked and how much they had improved since their last competition. Regional events like this are very competitive and making it to a final is an achievement in itself, so going on to win is an amazing accolade. Therefore, special recognition goes to Ethan Boyce, Evie-Ann Roberts, Maci Taylor and Iolanda Giles, each of whom won both their Latin and Ballroom categories. 

Reflecting on the day, Stardust principal Paula Graves said, “Learning to dance should always be fun, an opportunity to make friends and develop a new skill. Competing isn’t for everyone, and it’s never essential, but when pupils choose to step onto the dancefloor for a competition, I couldn’t be prouder of the confidence they show. Every single dancer did themselves and the school proud.” 

If you're inspired by the success of the Stardust dancers, and are interested in joining, contact Paula on 07709 936 026 for more information on the classes offered. 

Photo: Ethan Boyce who came 1st in the Latin and Ballroom categories.