I WOULD describe the build-up to Strictly Worcestershire to being one of the best moments of my life. It was filled with excitement, anticipation, laughter but most of all - a lot of love was shared.
Strictly Worcestershire is a glitzy dance spectacular where novice dancers ‘strut their stuff’ in front a panel of judges and a live audience of 800 people, all in aid of local charities. It goes without saying, for us dancers to perform and show off what we had learned over eight months - it was exhilarating. Jack Tingle, my dance partner, and I had zero dance experience whatsoever. We began our training back in October with dance teacher Sharon Tilki. We took quickly to the dance floor – especially Jack, even he agrees he is the flamboyant one.
Nothing remotely compares to how I felt on the day of the competition, on May 23 at the Chateau Impney, in Droitwich. We each had a 20-minute slot to rehearse our two routines on stage, with all the lighting, smoke effects, props and flooring etc – all of which had been organised by DRPG, a creative communications agency.
Before the show started, we had the pleasure of meeting the VIP guests of the night. For me, this was the most amazing experience. The support we received was huge - I felt like a super star. We met everyone who had kept up to date with our social media channels and watched us develop over the ‘Strictly journey.’
Worcestershire Ambassadors, organiser of Strictly Worcestershire 6, aims to raise money for local causes while also encouraging people to live and work in the county.
Julia Williams, vice chair and event producer said: “Worcestershire Ambassadors has a common passion for the county of Worcestershire. Worcestershire is an amazing place and we want to promote it. The standard of dancing was once again raised thanks to fellow Worcestershire Ambassador Sharon Tilki who choreographed all eight couples.”
Many of the contestants that have taken part in Strictly are a member of Worcestershire Ambassadors, such as Elaine Watt, Jason Barnett, Tracy Lowe, Sharon Tilki (choreographer) and previous dancers - Dawn Owen and Andrea Borwell Fox.
Overall a booming £36,000 was raised at the popular fundraiser, where £25,000 will be shared towards St Paul’s Hostel and Worcester Community Trust, and £10,000 will be split across the contestants’ charities.
Acorns Children’s Hospice, Worcestershire Animal Rescue Shelter, New Hope Worcester, Worcester Samaritans, Headway Worcestershire and Primrose Hospice will receive donations from the competition.
Strictly Worcestershire stories:
Charitable funds from Strictly Worcestershire will be a 'huge deal' for city's vulnerableDance teacher, Sharon Tilki, shares her journey on Strictly WorcestershireMy Strictly Worcestershire experience so far as a new contestantEx-army man taking part in Strictly Worcestershire speaks out on mental healthDancing Strictly Worcestershire couple inspired to help the homelessREAD MORE:
Four men arrested after fight in Worcester which involved 'sticks and baseball bats’ - says eyewitnessVicar licensed at an unusual site – a Worcester pubFair Point: Bring back the death penalty for the evil child abusers
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