From dancefloor to catwalk

Posted on August 22, 2014

Ballroom groups from the north-west will swap for the dancefloor for the catwalk in a glittering showcase. Ballroom Bling, creators of custom jewellery, is holding its first showcase event, celebrating the ballroom community as well as the company’s new designs.

30 dancers, aged from seven to 51, will appear on the runway to some of ballroom and Latin’s funkiest rhythms, wearing jewellery from Ballroom Bling’s latest collection. Under-21 amateur couple Shannon Fitzgerald and Sam Hunter (pictured), ranked third in the UK, will demonstrate the jive, samba, rumba and cha cha cha. The event will be held at the Longfield Suite, Prestwick on August 29.

“It’s great that so many people are showing support not only for Ballroom Bling but for ballroom and Latin dancing as a whole,” said Rachel Gibbons, founder of Ballroom Bling. “Since the rise of programmes such as Strictly Come Dancing, the dance community has seen a huge influx of interest in the sport, not only socially but competitively too.

“I chose the Longfield Suite in Prestwich due to its long-established roots as a dance practice venue and involvement with the sport. They have gone over and above the call of duty to make our first event a memorable one, it’s going to be a fantastic show.”

If you would like to attend the event please visit Ballroom Bling’s facebook page or email rachel@ballroom-bling.com.

Zoe Anderson

Zoë was born in Edinburgh, and saw her first dance performances at the Festival there. She is the dance critic of The Independent, and has also written for The Independent on Sunday, The Scotsman and Dancing Times. In 2002, she received her doctorate from the University of York for a thesis on “Nationhood and epic romance: Ariosto, Sidney, Spenser”. She is the author of The Royal Ballet: 75 Years and The Ballet Lover’s Companion.