Sunday 6th April was nothing short of magical for a group of talented young dancers who stole the show at the U.Dance festival. Representing their school with pride and professionalism, the students dazzled audiences, impressed industry leaders, and opened new doors for their future in dance.

The day began with a series of professional workshops in Jazz, Contemporary, and Cunningham technique, providing students with an enriching and hands-on experience guided by experts. They also had the chance to enjoy a variety of activities including TikTok dance challenges and insightful Q&A sessions with prominent figures from the dance world.

Excitement built as students took to the stage for technical rehearsals before preparing backstage in dressing rooms for their big moment. And when the lights went down and the evening performance began, it was clear something special was happening. Performing to a sold-out audience, the students delivered a breathtaking show, filled with passion, precision, and poise.

“The students demonstrated true excellence,” said Miss Gaffney, their proud teacher. “They performed their hearts out and received incredible feedback on their skill and professionalism – especially for such a young age.”

Their performance didn’t just wow the audience—it caught the attention of major players in the dance world. Representatives from the prestigious Lowry CAT (Centre for Advanced Training) scheme have invited the students to audition for their elite pre-professional program this summer. As a special bonus, they’ve offered a free in-school workshop to give students a taste of what the CAT experience entails.

 

And the opportunities didn’t stop there. The head of the National Youth Dance Company (NYDC) personally invited the students to attend their upcoming Experience Day in May. A select few will be chosen to audition for entry into the company’s September cohort, offering an extraordinary chance to train during school holidays, perform in high-profile showcases, and tour the country with the company.

“This experience has opened so many doors,” added Miss Gaffney. “It’s beyond exciting, and I am so incredibly proud of every single one of them.”

From workshops to standing ovations, and now the possibility of national tours, the U.Dance festival marked not just a day to remember, but potentially the start of something much bigger for these rising stars.

U.Dance Festival