Text by Eleni Constanti

When googled, April 7^th can be found to be memorable as the symbolic birth date of the Internet or the birthday of Russell Crowe. But, for me April 7^th 2013 will be forever remembered for the ISTD medallist dance competition at Gillingham, especially as it was my first one.

Fortunately the competition was in the afternoon, and so, I had plenty of time to ensure that my hair and make-up was perfectly in place and ready to last the day’s events. It was also the first sign of the gloomy weather passing and the sun returning back to our lives, indicating the arrival of my favorite season of the year.

I awoke early and got up to enjoy a hearty breakfast before getting ready for the competition. I was quite relaxed I suppose if you compare me with my lovely partner, who was asking me all the time “when am I going to be ready?” and if his “trousers made his belly look like he had a muffin top?” Despite our lengthy preparation, we were soon in the car and got there on time.

When we entered the hall, the juvenile competition was still on. I must say I was astonished with how the little ones could move on the dance floor. They really showed us how it’s done and how to smile naturally when under pressure. I really couldn’t take my eyes off of them. However, it would soon be our turn to take to the dance floor and I disappeared off to the changing room to put on my dress.

After changing, I sat there excitedly brushing my shoes knowing that I would soon collect my lucky number and take to the floor to shine. But, before the juveniles had finished, the lights cut out and the room was immersed in darkness. The excited cheers from the kids became louder as Gangnam style blared out of the stereo, shortly followed by the cha-cha slide. Both dancers and teachers took to the floor to show how low they really could go. This mid-way entertainment relaxed me and made me feel much less nervous for what lay ahead.

The adult section soon came round and we were the first on the dance floor for the under 35s social dance test waltz. Six competitors from DanceRite danced over two heats. The first heat whizzed by and then it was my turn to dance. Unfortunately my nerves got to me and I missed a step but hoped that the judges didn’t notice. The further rounds sped by until it was time for the second round of social dance test. Sadly I didn’t get a recall but I’m now more determined to get one next time. In the couples waltz I was more determined to dance better and had a comeback where we got a recall and sixth place!

Once the ballroom finished, the atmosphere changed from the elegance of ballroom to the electric vibe of latin; My favorite! I was determined to prove to myself that even with a plain black skirt and a black top I would be able to shine through my passion for latin. I was delighted to be recalled and made it to the semi finals in social dance test jive. The latin couples soon followed and we made it to the 4^th place dancing cha cha cha. I wanted a trophy to be honest and we were so close to getting one, but I’m determined that at the next medallist competition I’ll get at least one!

It was really great to be part of the DanceRite team and I was so happy to see so many people from our school getting a recall and, more amazingly, getting their awards. The whole day was amazing, from the juveniles fantastic performance to the over 50’s that danced the samba like I’ve never seen before and from disappointment to the jump of excitement when your number is called again. A truly great day and an absolutely fabulous experience!

Result

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