St John Bosco dancers shine at Blackpool Tower Ballroom – bringing home 18 awards

Young performers from St John Bosco Arts College in Croxteth have made their mark at one of the UK’s most iconic venues – the Blackpool Tower Ballroom – scooping 18 awards during a top dance competition.

The group of eight pupils, aged between 11 and 16, are part of the school’s Empire Street Dance Company. They wowed judges and fellow performers with a packed programme of routines at the Elite Group Competition – landing the titles of ‘Most Outstanding School of the Day’ and ‘Best Commercial Technique’ along the way.

The famous ballroom, known as the home of ballroom dancing, is steeped in history – with its stunning sprung floor and breathtaking interiors attracting performers from all over the world. Over the years it’s welcomed everyone from Fred Astaire to Ginger Rogers, and most recently, Liverpool’s own Chris McCausland during his memorable Strictly Blackpool Week appearance.

For the girls from Bosco, performing in such a prestigious venue was a dream come true.

Nell, in Year 9, said: “It was just the best day ever. I can’t believe how lovely the Blackpool Tower Ballroom was – I feel so lucky to have danced on that floor.”

Sarah, a Year 7 pupil, added: “I was so nervous, but now I wish I could do it all again.”

The Empire Street Dance Company train four nights a week in the school’s dedicated studio and were one of just two Liverpool-based dance groups in the competition – with the rest coming from across the North West.

Their routines included musical theatre numbers from Matilda, Shrek The Musical and SIX, alongside commercial dance pieces and a high-energy Michael Jackson medley. Some of the routines had even been performed last autumn in Las Vegas, where the group had previously competed.

Claire Wharmby, who leads events and transition at the school and founded Empire Street Dance Company, said: “I couldn’t be prouder of the girls. The passion, teamwork and energy they brought to the floor was incredible. They really left it all out there – and the response from the judges and other dance companies said it all.”

She added: “The support they showed for one another and for other performers was lovely to see. They were brilliant ambassadors for both St John Bosco and Empire Street Dance.”

St John Bosco Arts College is well known for its strong performing arts focus and offers a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities for pupils to explore new interests and build their confidence outside the classroom.

Headteacher Darren Gidman said: “To perform at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom is a huge achievement in itself – but to walk away with 18 titles is just phenomenal. We’re so proud of the pupils, staff and everyone involved. This really shows what our young people can achieve with talent, dedication and support.”

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