Diversity star seeks young dance groups in Buckinghamshire for Red Cross 2014 competition

Diversity star, Ashley Banjo, is seeking groups of young dancers from Buckinghamshire to participate in next year’s ‘Dance: Make Your Move’ competition, in support of the British Red Cross.

Primary schools, secondary schools, special schools, colleges, dance groups and youth groups are all invited to get involved and choreograph a dance routine that reflects any aspect of the Red Cross’ lifesaving work in the UK or abroad.

Ashley, who is currently a judge on Sky’s Got to Dance, says: “I love Dance: Make Your Move! It is absolutely amazing to see young people using their passion for dance to support such a brilliant cause. I am proud to be an ambassador for Dance: Make Your Move and encourage teachers, dance teachers and youth groups to get involved.”

Participants must be under 18: junior groups are aged 4 – 11 and the senior category is for 12 – 18-year-olds. Regional heats will be held in the spring, and the national final will be held for the second year running at the IndigO₂ at the O₂ in the London.

The dance event is set to be bigger and better this year than ever before, with over 30 performances due to take place at theatres and performing arts centres across the UK between April and July. Dance routines should be between three and eight minutes long, and can use movement, music or costume to reflect the work of the Red Cross in some way.

Ashley, 25, says: “I am enormously proud and excited to be supporting Dance: Make Your Move. Thanks to the funds raised by young dancers involved with Dance: Make Your Move the Red Cross will be able to help many people in crisis here in the UK and abroad… it’s a great event that you won’t want to miss out on!” Since 2006 Dance: Make Your Move has raised over £450,000 for the British Red Cross.

Dance: Make Your Move is dedicated to bringing young people from local communities together and introducing pupils to dance as a medium to overcome cultural, social and physical barriers. The event is open to everyone regardless of their ability. Young performers can enjoy dancing while raising money for the world’s largest humanitarian network.

Pupils also get the chance to work in their local communities on exciting fundraising activities, while gaining essential life skills through a choice of humanitarian action teaching resources.

To find out more information about dates and venues near you or to register for Dance: Make Your Move, visit www.redcross.org.uk/dance or call 0207 877 7617.