By Freya Preston
After six months of hard work, drive and dedication for hours weekly, the time had rolled around for it to be competition season for dancers across the country. The dance society, at Northumbria University, had already competed in two difficult competitions at Newcastle and Sheffield University in the weeks prior, however, this week was a special one as they were the hosts.
The Tyne Theatre welcomed seven different teams from universities across England and Scotland on the 9th March 2025 for a vibrant showcase of talent to celebrate all the competitors’ love of rhythm and performance.
The Atmosphere: A Buzz of Excitement
I have been a part of Northumbria’s competition team for two years, so I knew what to expect: an overwhelming amount of hairspray, gel-slicked buns, and an alarming number of Red Bulls consumed to sustain energy throughout the day.
From the moment I stepped through the stage doors, a contagious burst of energy was evident in the atmosphere as every university gave it their all to claim the coveted ‘Overall Best Uni’ award. Whether the teams were shouting their signature chants to the stage or cheering for other dancers when they perfected an impressive move, the support from the dancers and spectators was immense.
The Competition Starts
The day begins with a welcome speech from the competition co-ordinators Ellie Watkinson and Maddy Hodgson. Then continues with a diverse selection of dance styles in the order of ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, hip-hop, solos, duos and trios, ending the day with wildcard- my personal favourite to watch and perform.
From flawless fouettés in ballet to high energy tricks in advanced hip-hop, the stage was alive with talent. The level of synchronicity, creativity, and technical ability was displayed by each university was outstanding.
Despite rivalry, each university wished the others “good luck” before they took the stage, as well as congratulating them when they had nailed the routine, portraying that a hobby can flourish into a friendship beyond the stage. Whether the dancers had performed since they were toddlers, or they only started to compete whilst at university for fun, the experience truly brings so many people together to build countless memories.
Results
As the day drew to a close, the anticipation built for the awards ceremony. The judges had given in their score sheets and each dancer sat in the stalls of the beautiful Tyne Theatre eagerly waiting to hear where they had placed. Northumbria University had a terrific time scoring highly on all routines after delivering a stellar performance:
- 1st Intermediate ballet
- 1st Advanced ballet
- 1st Intermediate tap
- 3rd Intermediate jazz
- 1st Advanced jazz
- 2nd Lyrical
- 1st Advanced contemporary
- 1st Intermediate hip hop
- 1st Wildcard
- 2nd Thalia’s solo
- 1st Gabbi and Lucy’s duet
- Best female- Scarlett Arundel
- Best overall uni
On reflection, it is truly evident that these competition days are a testament to the teamwork and high spirits of student dancers that have continued their passion for a hobby. No matter whether you were a student, spectator, judge, or helper, the event was enjoyable for everyone.
As a final year student, this was my last home competition dancing for Northumbria. But even though I won’t be performing next year, I know one thing for certain, I’ll be back to cheer on this incredible team of talented performers.