At the Chelmsford Dance Centre, we pride ourselves on offering a wide variety of competition opportunities for our pupils. Whether you are new to dancing or an experienced competitor, there is something for everyone. Competitions provide a fantastic platform to showcase your skills, build confidence, and connect with the wider dance community. Below, we explore the different types of competitions we offer and how you can get involved.
Team Matches
Team matches are an exciting way to represent Chelmsford Dance Centre alongside your fellow dancers. In these events, our Adult, Juvenile, and Junior teams compete against other dance schools within the same age categories, all aiming to become the winning school.
These events not only build camaraderie and team spirit, but also allow dancers to experience the thrill of competing together. Team matches often include a programme of supporting competitions as well, giving dancers even more opportunities to take to the floor.
Festivals
Festivals, such as the popular Rayleigh Festival, are medley events where dancers can compete as soloists, with a teacher, or as a couple. These competitions celebrate individuality, performance quality, and creativity, allowing dancers to develop and showcase their own personal style.
One of the highlights of the competition calendar is the Blackpool Medallist Grand Finals. Similar in format to other festivals, this prestigious event is held in the world-famous Empress Ballroom — often regarded as the spiritual home of ballroom dancing. For many competitors, dancing in such an iconic venue is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Danceramas
Danceramas are unique competitions held within our own dance studio. Participants perform both a performance dance and a basic dance, which are judged using a visual marking system. These smaller, more intimate events are ideal for improving technique, gaining valuable experience, and receiving constructive feedback in a friendly and supportive environment.
In-House Competitions
Our in-house competitions are structured in a similar way to team matches, but involve only pupils from Chelmsford Dance Centre.
These events provide a safe, encouraging, and welcoming environment where dancers can gain confidence and develop their competitive skills without the added pressure of external competitors. They are especially ideal for beginners or those entering competitions for the first time.
Competition Structure
Most competitions are divided into grades that reflect the examination levels achieved by our pupils, including Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Above Gold categories. For those just starting their dance journey, we regularly offer Beginner and Starter events to encourage new competitors to take to the floor with confidence.
How to Get Involved
All competitions involving Chelmsford Dance Centre are advertised on our website:
There you will find:
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Detailed programmes listing event numbers
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Ticket purchasing information
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Competition updates and schedules
All About Competitions
Hair, Make-up, Tan and All That Jazz!
Ballroom and Latin make-up and tanning are designed to withstand bright stage lighting, prevent dancers from looking washed out, and help emphasise movement, posture, and muscle definition.
You will generally want to go much bolder than with everyday wear, including a dark competition tan, dramatic eye make-up, a polished hairstyle, and vibrant lipstick. Basically, the heavier the make-up, the better!
Fake tan, where required, is also considered essential, as there is nothing more off-putting than a dancer who appears pale or washed out under the lights. The aim is to look striking, polished, and stage-ready at all times.
For girls, false eyelashes, false nails, and slicked-back hairstyles are all extremely common. A quick look inside any competitor’s make-up box will usually reveal large amounts of hairspray, fake tan, hairpins, and countless accessories needed to keep everything looking perfect throughout the day.
There are specific dress-code restrictions under British Dance Council rules for Under-12 Medallist events, including the prohibition of glitter, sequins, and diamantes. However, make-up is still very much permitted — and expected. The same rules generally apply to medal examinations.
Provided you remain within the appropriate British Dance Council regulations for Under-12s, competitions are very much an opportunity to embrace the full ballroom and Latin competition look.
As always, if you are unsure about anything, please speak to your teacher during your next lesson. They will be more than happy to guide and advise you.
Competitions at Chelmsford Dance Centre are a wonderful way to grow as a dancer, build confidence, create lasting memories, and celebrate your passion for dance. We look forward to seeing you on the floor!
Hair & Makeup Examples (Juvenile Competitiors)
Hair & Makeup Examples (Junior & Adult Competitiors)
Competition Day Preparation Tips
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Arrive on time – punctuality is essential for a smooth and stress-free start.
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Bring your ticket – you will not be admitted into the venue without it.
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Collect your number from your teacher – remember to bring safety pins and use at least two, pinned on opposite corners, to keep your number flat and visible.
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Listen carefully for your events – your teacher will support you, but it remains your responsibility to be ready. We strongly recommend printing your own copy of the programme, available on our website.
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Be prepared at least one event before your own – or earlier if you hope to be recalled. Avoid standing up suddenly after sitting for long periods; keeping mobile will help your circulation and performance.
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Please be patient – teachers and staff are often under considerable pressure, especially when dancing themselves or supporting first-time competitors. Your understanding is greatly appreciated.
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Finalists – if you make a final, please be ready to collect your award in full competition attire for the presentation photographs.
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Buddy system – experienced dancers are encouraged to support newer competitors. If you would like to volunteer as a competition buddy, please let us know in advance.
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Above All… Have Fun!
Judges love to mark dancers who genuinely look like they are enjoying themselves — so smile, relax, and enjoy every moment on the dance floor!