Launceston was transformed into a hive of activity and talent recently, as the North Cornwall Dance Festival came to town.  

The event, hosted at St Joseph’s School, welcomed amateur dancers from across the country to display their talents over four days of competitions. 

More than 500 performers, ranging in age from three years old to 19 years old, took to the stage to display their talents.  

2024’s North Cornwall Dance Festival not only offered an opportunity to compete in the competition’s various categories, but also served as a qualifying stage for the All England Dance finals.  

With more than 90 competitors securing their places in the regional finals across a diverse array of dance disciplines, including ballet, tap, lyrical modern, contemporary and even classical Greek, the festival’s aim to inspire, celebrate, and nurture young dance talent was embodied in every performance, providing a supportive and enriching competitive environment. 

An adjudicator, Jacqui Ison – who travelled all the way from Essex – offered professional critique to dancers which served participants’ artistic and technical development. 

A spokesperson from the festival added: “A testament to the festival’s far-reaching appeal was the participation of dancers from across the region and beyond, including Ohana, a dance school that journeyed from London. 

“Their commitment extended beyond competition; members of Ohana also volunteered to help staff the event, exemplifying the spirit of collaboration and mutual support that the NCDF aims to foster. 

“The festival was also a showcase for local talent, with Nicky Brice Dance School, based in Launceston, entering several pupils.

“All entrants from the school won medals, demonstrating the high level of skill and dedication nurtured within the local community.  

“A special commendation goes to St Joseph’s pupil and Nicky Brice student, Lili Shaw, who, in an inspiring display of determination and resilience, won six medals.  

“This was particularly remarkable considering she had only been off crutches for three weeks before the festival, having broken her leg before Christmas.”  

Results

Trophy winners, celebrated for their outstanding performances, included: 

Outstanding Performance Baby Age Category (Sponsored by Maddielili Photography): Amelie Bish, Little Wings Dance School 

Outstanding Performance Junior Age Category (Sponsored by West Bowithick Holiday Cottages): 

Isabella Froude, Totnes School of Dance 

Outstanding Performance Intermediate Age Category (Sponsored by St. Joseph’s School): Fenella Milner, South West School of Dance 

Outstanding Performance Senior Age Category (Sponsored by Flying Lizard):

Bethan Norris, South West School of Dance 

Most Promising Performer: Bethany Bent, Jamiella Dance School