A spectacular dance extravaganza in Sheepridge has raised more than £2,000 for children’s charities.
The event was the brainchild of Lauren Haywood from Brighouse and was a showcase of talent from Huddersfield and her dance friends from around the UK.
Around 300 people were entertained by acts ranging from contortionists to dancers to singers to stilt-walkers.
By the end of the day £2,023 had been raised which will be divided between the Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice in Brackenhall, Huddersfield-based Ruddi’s Retreat and Climb HQ which is for children living with metabolic diseases.
Lauren, 23 – who goes under the name Bgirl Fidget and teachers dance at schools across Huddersfield and also HD1 Dance Studios in the town centre – said: “I know some wonderful young people and this event has shown what they are all about.
“It was a brilliant community event for kids and their families and showed just what can be achieved when the youngsters have their heart set on it. There are some amazingly talented young people out there.”
The event at Northfield Hall in Sheepridge featured professional dance acts from around the country – and all waived their fees to take part.
Local acts included Lauren’s dance group called Fidget Feet for youngsters aged from four to 14 along with her street dance group Poco Loco which takes part in national street dance competitions.
Lauren added: “Poco Loco are a lovely group of kids who work and train so hard for two or three nights a week. They’re more like a family to me now.”
Raffle prizes from businesses around Huddersfield included everything from a ukulele to photo shoots, make-up sessions, clothes and perfumes.
Lauren added: “Northfield Hall was a great venue with a nice big space. It’s not been open long so it was great to promote that too.”
Leeds graffiti artist Ejector did a piece of work around the word Boom on a canvas on the night which was auctioned off and raised £150.
The event was hosted by dancer Steve Bruce – known as Brucey – who is originally from Huddersfield but now lives in Leeds.
He is one of the country’s leading experts on stilt dancing, complete with back flips.
