Find out more about The East Surrey Dance Festival
On a physical level, dance has been shown to improve balance, coordination, muscle strength and flexibility. It also relieves stress, helps keep you fit, builds self-confidence and offers a creative outlet allowing you to express yourself freely. Research shows a strong link between involvement in the arts and increased educational achievement. It is for all these reasons that dance has become so popular in schools today.
One of the best things about the dance festival is that it is open to ALL children. Some schools bring children who may have never been to a dance class before let alone danced on a big stage in front of 500 people! Some children arrive feeling like there is no way they can do it but walk out the stage door at the end of the evening on cloud nine – so full of joy and pride – energised and empowered by how they overcame their fears and were part of something so electric and special!
Another super thing about the festival is that only miss half a school day to be part of it all. You will rehearse in the morning or afternoon and then perform in the 5.00pm or 7.30pm show in the evening. Younger groups and schools located furthest from Redhill are scheduled to perform in the earlier shows.
The Festival was set up by the East Surrey School Sport Partnership (E.S.S.S.P.), a government-funded organisation providing tuition and support, and actively encouraging students to take part in sporting activities. Sadly the E.S.S.S.P. fell victim to spending cuts. So in 2011 we were asked to continue the annual event and ensure students continued to receive the physical and creative education they need and deserve. And the rest is history!
If your school would like to be part of this magical event then please get in touch info@star-steppers.com / 07810 808 228
