The Dance Festival 2019
The 2019 West Wiltshire School Dance Festival was held at the amazing venue of The Forum Bath 12th,13th,14th February 2019 . Our 3 day event established in 2016 means more schools are able to preform , more children and more audience to soak up the atmosphere in the fabulous venue at the Forum.
The Theme
The 2019 theme was LOVE Every year the Dance festival has had a theme . Adding a theme to the event encourages a wide choice of choreographic angles , music and interpretation of the theme.
Now in its 14 th year the enthusiasm dedication and love towards the Dance Festival event just gets bigger The planning & preparation, rehearsals, choreography choice and so much more.
I have been involved with the festival since its humble beginnings over 10 years ago. I think the factor that stands out for me about the festival is the inclusiveness of the event .
Amazing fun was had.
Any child regardless of age ability or confidence can dance on that stage . Every year I am told by teachers & parents how that the festival has effected certain pupils, their child and even entire classes . Unconfident children have suddenly found an inner confidence. Children who are challenged in other areas of learning , suddenly are able to shine when preforming . As an educator , for me thats what its all about.
New in 2018 we are delighted to launch TWO Outstanding Achievements Awards . The Chris Bell Award in recognition of the Dance Festival founder & The Dance Lady Award .The awards are for any pupil whom has gone above and beyond , who have demonstrated determination , passion and strength of character to of participated within the festival . The Dance Festival encourages inclusivity children and young adults from all spectrums of life Dance on the same platform . This years award went to Reuben from Holt ,whom demonstrated in true Dance Festival style , that the show must go on and stepped in to take the place of a poorly child , with less than 24hours practice!
Children and staff who enter the Dance Festival have complete artistic licence to do what they want Dance styles range from disco , street, contemporary to basically just movement to music . Choreography influence comes from the children’s ideas , books , films , Disney and cultural influences .
The Dance Festival prides its self on its organic atmosphere, nurturing creativity in whatever form. Resulting in an event which is purely about the Children their talent and participation .
2019 included participation from over 1000 children from Key Stage 1-3 ! ,
thats what makes the Dance Festival unique as there are few school events which include all school ages . 45 different schools attended some schools bringing 10 children , some schools bringing 30!
The 2019 shows had 2 SELL OUT performances ! of over 800 ticket purchsese. No profit is made for the Dance Festival proceeds are used to secure the Festival for the following year .
However , none of this would happen with out a great partnership of people, whom at the heart of it all want to provide opportunities , experiences and memories for children .
Myself Caroline Dance Lady .
Mr Selwyn Widger West Wilts School sports Partnership http://www.wwsgo.co.uk
Based at Kingdown School Warminster Selwyns integral role of the background organisation has evolved the Dance Festival into a 3 day spectacular !.Selwyns dedication and passion to make the Dance Festival a flag ship event and just that little bit better every year is outstanding . Its aprivelge to work alongside him and the Acorn partnership Team . Selwyn looks at every factor surrounding the Dance Festival and then opens it up as an opportunity for children to experience & assist with . Sports Leaders from Kingdown school help with the setting up & down of the back stage support . They also act as meet n greet , general information contact , filming & photography .
When Mr Widger asked for Sport Leaders from Kingdown school if they would like to volunteer , he was shocked & delighted to have 96 children arrive at his PE office at the time of registration . Many of this children being involved with the festival previously at their primary school
Comperes for each night are chosen from applications from any of the schools within the partnership area.
WASP. Wiltshire Active Sport Partnership http://www.wiltssport.org.uk
The Dance Festival is supported by Wiltshire Active Sport . WASP have partnered us for the last 6 years . Their supports ensures the Festival can evolve , It also provides another opportunity for the Dancers to attend and preform at , as part of the opening ceremony at the Wiltshire Schools Games event in Marlborough
Apple a Day have joined the Dance Festival family http://appleadaysupply.co.uk. Again passionate about children educational experiences . Gemma and her team are a most welcomed addition to our partnership.
To find out about more about how to entry your school please go to the West Wiltshire School Games Officer website http://www.wwsgo.co.uk/dance-festival/
