It was around the world in 21 schools, when our dancers joined others from across the region for the West Norfolk School Sport Partnership (WNSSP) Dance Festival.

Opening the sold-out show at the Corn Exchange were performers from Springwood High School, who rose to the challenge of this year’s ‘Different Countries’ theme. The ten students from Years 8 to 12 danced to a variety of music, which included ‘Waka Waka’ by Shakira, ‘Let's Get Loud’ by Jennifer Lopez, Ricky Martin’s ‘Maria’, and ‘Mambo No.5’ by Lou Bega.  

“It’s an honour to be invited to perform at this event,” said Dawn Paulo, Head of Dance at Springwood, which is part of the West Norfolk Academies Trust. “It allows our dancers the opportunity to come together to perform in a professional venue, and to interact and support younger students in West Norfolk.

“It is lovely to see our Springwood students enjoying themselves on stage, but it’s also great to see our primary schools getting a chance to perform too.”

Among the 20 primary schools participating were fellow WNAT members Clenchwarton, West Lynn, and Walpole Cross Keys primaries, and Heacham Infant School.

Twenty-seven Year 3 pupils from Clenchwarton performed a routine to ‘Cheers to Life’, which had been choreographed by Dance Teacher Kate Whyborn.

“This was our third year taking part,” said Class Teacher Sophie Tarsey.

“It is a great opportunity for children to step outside their comfort zones and do something they have probably never experienced before.

“Many children expressed how much they enjoyed it and wanted to do it again, when they were really nervous about it at the start of the year.

“I hope it encourages more children to find opportunities for dance outside school, as well as inspiring other children in school.”

The Walpole Cross Keys dancers drew inspiration from America for their routine. The 16 pupils from Years 2 and 3 at the school performed to a medley which featured ‘Party in the USA’, ‘Hey Mickey’, ‘Everybody’s Surfing’, and ‘Achy Breaky Heart’.

“Events like this are vitally important, as the children get to take part in an activity and perform on stage,” said Class Teacher Carol Jones. “It shows them resilience through learning the routine, encouragement from other class members and adults.”

The Dance Festival takes place twice-yearly, each March and June.

“It’s definitely a highlight of the year, as it brings so many schools together to perform and celebrate one another’s work,” added Ms Paulo.

“Springwood will be performing once more at the next WNSSP Dance Festival in June. The theme for this event will be ‘Popstars’.”