All England Dance

Lets take you back to the 70s... Was a young Mark being brought along to watch his sister perform in the dance competitions. Kenneth Moore Theatre in Ilford and The Broadway Theatre in Barking where i would sit all day watching and mesmerized this never bothered me at all and was so happy to be there this was actually a perfect day for me. I developed an understanding and opened my eyes to creativity. I learnt a lot about dance competitions and how they work. Fast forward to the 80s and i would be entering the dance competitions myself. I always remember during rehearsals for competitions that were approaching my dance teacher would always pick me to if i had any ideas and if i could add in new steps or movements in the choreography (when i look back now it seemed that i was destined to be a choreographer as dance teachers loved my ideas and could rely on me to choreograph) and support them. At home i would make up dances by myself watching music videos and Top of the pops i just always enjoyed it and it came very naturally to me. I loved performing at dance competitions being creative the costumes and of course if was successful feeling proud of all my hard work.  

2026.. All England Dance contacted me and asked me to be a judge for their dance finals at the Congress Theatre Eastbourne. This was something i had never expected to be asked in my lifetime. If someone had told me when i was that young boy watching over 40 years ago and said that will be you judging one day i would never have believed them. It really felt like a full circle moment from being young Mark in the audience watching my sister perform to entering and performing myself to now being a judge. All England is well known dance competition where all dance schools from around the UK come to compete. It felt nice to be accepted as they had confidence in my expertise to be a judge. The day concluded of me and two other judges and a full day from morning until evening which had group numbers and solos. Alex Turner supported me throughout the judging and the communication. Whilst a participant was on stage talking or if one of other judges were talking Alex would translate to me in BSL It was very supportive and kind for All England to organise someone to be with me and help me with my access needs. It made me feel comfortable and included i was very appreciative of Alexs support throughout the duration of the day.  

I remember whilst judging seeing the standard and quality of technique had progressed and changed so much over the years it was exceptional. Its very exciting and inspiring to see the young generation already at such a high standard. Lots of variety of performances and was interesting to see a lot of acro style influenced dances. At the end of each section we would go on the stage and give praise and feedback to the dancers along with the award they had received on the day. It was great to see their faces light up as i know what it feels like i have been in their position the nerves the hard work and dedication and to be rewarded for it makes all the practice you have put in worthwhile and feels like such a sense of achievement.   

I could see around the room the support the children had for one another and that was beautiful to see this kindness support and caring for others, sharing something they all have in common a love for dance. I am very passionate about dance and its always great to see the next generation of dancers who to look out for in shows and maybe work with them in the future.  

The whole day was professionally run and well organised. The scoring through the computer system was a great new modern way. The staff most of them are volunteer's and they worked all week and worked so hard they should be so proud of all they done as made me feel very welcome. I was well looked after and i had an amazing experience. I am very thankful to All England for inviting me to be a judge it was something i had never expected to happen in my lifetime and what a joy it was to be a part of it. And i am thrilled to say All England has asked me to return in 2028...