Local dance showcase wows crowds at Winding Wheel

Dancers from nine local secondary schools impressed a full house with over twenty performances at the Winding Wheel last week. The annual Secondary Dance Platform, which took place on Wednesday 2nd December, was organised by Chesterfield School Sport Partnership (SSP) and is the tenth year that local young people have been given an opportunity to show off their talents.

Performances encompassed a variety of styles and themes including one of three from Brookfield Community School, entitled ‘Lest We Forget’, which were dedicated to the British Legion and took on an emotional, World War Two theme. Another performance – from Springwell Community College’s GCSE dance class – carried an anti-bullying message.

There were also outstanding dances from groups at Hasland Hall Community School, Netherthorpe School, Outwood Academy Newbold, St. Mary’s Catholic High School, Anthony Gell School, Lady Manners School and Tupton Hall School.

Mark Tournier, Partnership Development Manager at the Chesterfield SSP, said: “Tonight was a fantastic celebration of dance and how dance can support the growth of young people. Already looking forward to next year!” 

Jasmine Bradshaw, of Hasland Hall, put on a fantastic solo-display entitled ‘The Lonely.’ She said: “I really enjoyed it. I like dancing on my own because there’s more open space to move into. Tonight’s been really good and a great experience. I’ve not been here before but it’s an experience everyone should try.”

There were also guest performances from the Derbyshire Youth Dance Company (Déda) and Crystal Cheer and Dance.

Clare Limb, Head of Dance Development and Learning at Déda, said: “The event was incredibly successful and we are delighted to be involved with this event. A real highlight of my year. I thought our performers were excellent and brought a new dimension to the evening, showing progression routes for young.”