To mark one hundred years of Stoke-on-Trent, a special Centenary Tea Dance will be taking place on the eve of Federation Day, 31 March.
The tea dance, featuring a wide mix of music from local band “The John Simons Band” takes place on Tuesday 30 March at the Victoria Hall between 2pm and 4:30pm.
The dance is one of several events planned as part of Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s World of Dance project commissioned through People Dancing. Part of the West Midlands’ Culture Programme for London 2012, People Dancing uses the inspiration of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games to get people dancing across Stoke-on-Trent.
Funded by the Legacy Trust UK, an independent charity set up to help build a lasting cultural and sporting legacy from the 2012 Olympic Games, Arts Council England West Midlands and Advantage West Midlands, People Dancing is a three year programme of activity aimed at encouraging mass participation in dance and dance related activity across the West Midlands.
Councillor Hazel Lyth, cabinet member for economic development and culture, said: “People Dancing is a great project that everyone, of all ages, can take part in.
“It’s about getting people fit and healthy, but also about encouraging a real community spirit and togetherness. It’s also a great way to celebrate the centenary of Stoke-on-Trent and is another way of people getting involved in something that will form part of our history.”
To prepare for the Centenary Tea Dance community groups can also book a free two hour ‘Ballroom Dance Workshop’ to take place in their neighbourhood.
To reserve one of the 200 free tickets Stoke-on-Trent residents wishing to attend the dance should contact Vanessa Darlington by telephoning 01782 236156, email vanessa.darlington@stoke.gov.uk
Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s World of Dance is a dance participation project for all ages and abilities. Over three years in Stoke, members of the public will be encouraged to try out a range of dance art forms from Bhangra to Tea Dance from Hip Hop to Belly Dancing from Baby Loves Disco to Salsa. World of Dance has been awarded the Inspire Mark which recognises innovative and exceptional projects directly inspired by the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.