A MILESTONE in dance was celebrated recently in Radstock with Sue Hill Dance performing its biennial show in its 44th year.

The two-day festival held over the Valentine’s Day weekend featured four sold out performances with more than 350 dancers wowing audiences at Dragonfly Theatre.

Performers from as young as four years old appeared on stage for the first time alongside more experienced dancers, with the cast also including students from BDC Bath Dance College.

Three students performing in the show were nominated for the IDTA Junior Theatre Dance Awards, which took place on the same weekend.

Maddie Hood, Jazzy Robinson-Knott and Jasmine Jones all demonstrated exceptional skill and artistry in their IDTA core subject, Grade 3 ballet to be nominated.

Thirteen-year-old Jazzy Robinson-Knott, who was taking part in her fifth Sue Hill Dance show, said: “Being part of the show was incredibly special for me, I have dreamed of performing en pointe with Sue Hill Dance for as long as I can remember, and during this show that dream finally came true.

“To make it extra special, I was privileged to support the younger dancers in both ballet and tap. For some of them, it was their first time performing and experiencing the excitement of being on stage.

“Although I was unable to attend the IDTA awards because I was performing, I wouldn’t have wanted to be anywhere else. Dancing at Sue Hill Dance really does feel like being part of one big family, where everyone supports and encourages each other.”

Fourteen-year-old Jasmine Jones, said: “This is my fourth dance show with Sue Hill Dance and I have absolutely loved each and every one of them. I love being on stage, it is where I feel most at home. I am incredibly grateful for this amazing opportunity; I wish that my 6 year-old self could see me now!”

Thirteen-year-old Maddie Hood said: “I loved dancing on stage with my friends, and I can’t wait for the next show!”

With approximately 400 students enrolled at the dance schools, ranging from 18 months to 80 years of age, Sue Hill remains the proud owner and principal of the school. She commented: “I feel incredibly proud that Sue Hill Dance Limited is still going strong 44 years later.

“When I first opened the school, I could never have imagined the thousands of students who would come through our doors over the years. To see second and even third generations of families now dancing with us is truly special; it means more than I can put into words.

“The school has always been about far more than dance; it’s about community, confidence, friendships and creating lifelong memories.

“To still have around 400 students, from toddlers taking their very first steps in dance to adults in their 80s continuing to enjoy movement and music, is something I’m enormously proud of.

“It’s a privilege to have been part of so many young people’s journeys, and I’m very grateful for the continued support of our wonderful families and community.”