Hundreds put on their dancing shoes for return of Dance Festival

Thousands of people flocked to the town centre last weekend as the annual Dance Festival, supported by the council, made a welcome return.

More than 600 dancers from 19 dance schools, primary schools and performing arts schools came together for the event, organised by the Darlington Dance Festival Association.

Thousands of spectators watched as a variety of dances were showcased in the market square from 80s pop and hip hop to Zumba and swing. Workshops were also held so everyone could learn some new moves.

The highlight of the festival was the mass dance which saw dancers of all ages from across the town come together to perform a specially choreographed routine.

Joanne Scott, chair of the Dance Festival Association, said: “We are so lucky to have an event like this that brings everyone together as one community. The market square was brought to life and there was such a buzz created by the mass dance, which always amazes me.

“The last Dance Festival event took place in 2019, so after three years of waiting it was amazing for everyone to be back dancing together again.”

Councillor Darrien Wright, the council’s LGBTQI ambassador, said: “Darlington Dance Festival has been going for over 10 years and, especially after lockdown where we couldn’t dance with our friends or family, the turnout was absolutely amazing. 

“Members of the town coming together to celebrate the best of dance from Darlington no matter their age, gender, sexuality, race or religion goes to show how Darlington is a town where you can live, work, celebrate and be whoever you want to be. 

“Dance is most definitely back and has come back stronger than ever - congratulations!”

The event which was also supported by Darlington for Culture, Creative Darlington, Darlington Rotary Club and Newcastle Building Society, is the latest in a jam packed programme of town centre events taking place over the coming months. To find out more visit www.enjoydarlington.co.uk or pick up a copy of the guide from the Dolphin Centre or the libraries.