J M DANCEFIT

I have danced for many years with the Iberian Folk Dance Group.  This group performs community shows around London. The performances are held at elderly day centres, local festivals, libraries and in the theatre. The dances are Spanish, Mexican and Portuguese with one or two South American ones. 

This year we took part in something different. “The Big Dance “ at Trafalgar Square.  This was to make a world record for as many different dance styles all performing at the same time. It was also to be filmed by the BBC to go on air live on Saturday night.

After many rehearsals, several down at Woolwich in a huge warehouse, we finally made it to the square for a last rehearsal before the big night. On Friday evening we all arrived on the square to find it covered with cameras and lights. We went through our paces with many people watching.

Saturday arrived and we were all in costume to rehearse before the show was filmed.  There were 45 groups in total all dressed in beautiful costumes.  Several different countries and dance styles were represented. 

There were two shows both to be hosted by Bruce Forsythe and Zoe Ball.  In the first one, we were the audience to the professional performers on the night.

Just before our performance began we all lined up in our various positions. Unfortunately the heavens opened and everyone got soaked. This did not put anyone off, after all the hard work, everyone wanted to achieve the record.  It was a success!  A new world record was achieved and everyone went home having enjoyed the event.

For Iberian Folk Dance website, click link below

www.communigate.co.uk/london/iberiandance