SUNDAY 27 APRIL 2025
The organisers of the "The Rayleigh" Dance festival would like to acknowledge the kind support of both solicitors Birkett Long in the event.
https://www.birkettlong.co.uk
&
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Times
Doors Open 09:30
First Round 10:15
Location
Chelmsford Dance Centre Pupils Only -
Please Click Here To Enter The Events Once You Have Purchased Your Tickets
Download Free Event Program
Parking
Parking is very easy. And here are the details for you: -
Mill Hall – SS6 7ED (121 spaces)
Market – SS6 8EB (65 spaces)
Websters Way – SS6 8JQ (347 spaces)
Full details of Car Parking can be found here
Currently, parking is free on Sundays, but please double-check on the web link above in case things change.
Future Event Dates
Sunday
27 April 2025
Sunday
12 October 2025
Sunday
26 April 2026
Who
is
Who
Phil Meacham
Your Host
Phil has been immersed in the glamorous world of dance since the tender age of 4, with family memories of him joyfully grasping the dropped front of an old-fashioned Radiogram while wiggling his diaper-clad bottom. It's safe to say he's always been a natural performer, in addition to excelling as a professional dancer.
From those early days, his career has blossomed, encompassing roles as a radio presenter for the BBC and various television appearances, ranging from children's programs to the satirical gem "A Comic Strip Presents..." on Channel 4. This diverse background has uniquely qualified him to be a dynamic dance event host, these days also doing work as an after-dinner speaker.
His experience in dance hosting spans from intimate gatherings to the grand National Championships, with each event offering its own distinct flavour. The truth is, you can never predict exactly what will unfold when Phil takes the reins, but one thing's for sure: it will always be an enjoyable and entertaining experience!
Judge
Gary Foster
Hello , I'm Gary Foster from the Midlands. I've been professional for 45 years and have built up the reputation of being one of the country's leading chairman of judges and having the honour of presiding at the European and International championships . I've danced from the age of 8 through all the grades and have been fortunate to represent Britain in competitions abroad both as a competitor and adjudicator. May I wish everyone a successful and enjoyable Rayleigh festival ,I'm delighted to be asked to officiate. Most of all have fun and keeeep dancing.
Judge
Jaime Dieguez
From my first dance class at seven, my passion shaped my life and career. I trained in Ballroom and Latin, progressing through NATD and ISTD exams before competing on the open circuit. As an amateur, I became Closed UK 10-Dance Champion before taking a short break from competition.
Returning to the dance floor, I qualified with the NATD and embarked on my professional career alongside my wife, Anna. Together, we became British National finalists multiple times and Closed UK Vice Champions. After retiring from competition, I achieved my Fellowship qualifications in Ballroom and Latin American and my Licentiate in Freestyle with the NATD.
Beyond competition, I am dedicated to dance education and development. I serve as London Area Chairman for the NATD, a Director on the Council of Management, and a member of the Ballroom and Latin Faculty. I also represent the NATD on the British Dance Council and contribute to the World Dance Organisation’s Future Planning and Development Committee.
Judge
Terri
Bodell
Terri Bodell is a qualified IDTA Associate teacher in Ballroom and Line Dance, Alixa Flexibility instructor & member of One Dance UK and EMD UK.
She is the Principal of Nick’s Dance School in Potters Bar which was founded in 2010 by Nick Peacock & Terri.
Terri started dancing at the age of 10 at North Twenty Dance School in Barnet where she took amateur IDTA Ballroom & Latin exams. She attended the Corona Theatre College studying dance & drama where she studied many genres of dance.
Terri has also built a strong relationship with and also partners with local dance school, Rhythmix Dance Academy, where she choreographs and teaches Latin & Ballroom to their Elite squad. She has also performed with the Elite team in show performances, charity flash mobs and other events for local organisations and charities.
Libby
Brooks
Scrutineer
Renowned as the "fastest inputter in the business," Libby's reputation precedes her as one of the most promising scrutineers emerging in the UK scene.
With her trusty laptop in tow, she's a familiar face at major events, where her adaptability and flexibility shine. Notably, she's a fixture at prestigious gatherings like the Blackpool Grand Finals, where her skills are in high demand.
Given her track record and expertise, there's no doubt that Libby is the perfect candidate to handle the intricate task of number crunching at "The Rayleigh," bringing precision and efficiency to every aspect of the job.
WHAT IS IT LIKE AT "THE RAYLEIGH"?
They say a picture paints a thousand words!
