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Text by Natalie Wood
A-maz-ing. If I could only use one word to describe my day at Gillingham 2012 then amazing would have to be it.
Gillingham was my third competition and the day started at a rather more leisurely pace than I had come to expect. The adult competition was not starting until 3.30pm. So instead of a 5am alarm call followed by trying to get ready whilst still half asleep, I enjoyed a lie in until 7am (the joys of a young child) and plenty of time to style my hair, slap on the makeup and generally prepare myself for the coming day.
It was a beautiful morning in Basingstoke and as we drove round the M25 the sun beat down with merciless ferocity. The rain clouds descended however as we neared Kent and the competition venue. The weather did not seem to put a damper on anyone’s spirits though and the DanceRite crew were all happy and eager to start dancing.
After a quick practice it was straight in to the first round. The commentator (an amateur comedian, who was greatly impressed by Fredric’s beautiful pair (Laura and Matilda) powered through each round moving the day along at a fast pace.
I must make a special mention here of Victoria Tester who having just done her practice dances stepped up to dance with both Matthew and Adrian in their respective dance rounds. This was closely followed by her then taking to the floor in her own competition with Fredric. At least she was thoroughly warmed up by then!
Soon we were all rather too warm. It turned out that the children had been cold that morning so the under floor heating had been put on, but they had neglected to turn it off again so by the time the adults appeared at 3.30pm the hall was far too warm and smelt a trifle ripe! Regardless of the heat everyone gave it their all and as always DanceRite presented themselves in style. We had sprightly Quicksteps, Classy Waltzes, Tempestuous Tangos and a spinning Viennese Waltz in the Ballroom rounds, followed by Bouncy Jives, Cheeky Cha cha’s and Sensuous Rumbas in the Latin.
On the advice of our esteemed teachers I had chosen to remove my glasses for the competition. I am not sure why, but it seemed to do the trick and I got my best results yet. The only downside being that all I could see of everyone’s lovely dancing was a beautifully presented blur.
Finally it was time for the prize giving and as always DanceRite acquitted themselves well. We had a total of 47 finalist, between us taking home 5 firsts, 6 seconds and 9 thirds in both solos and couples.
Then it was back to earth with a bump. Off came the sequins and sparkly jewellery. I wiped off the make-up, washed out the hair gel and morphed from a Dancer back into wife and mother, ready to face the trials and tribulations of the school run and do battle at the local supermarket.
I am already looking forward to the next competition. Another chance to get all glammed up and trip the light fantastic.
