Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) and the Pavilion

Quickstep to the BIC for the UK Dance Exhibition

Dance fans will be ‘quick stepping’ their way to the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) this month (21 -24 January) for the UK Dance Exhibition, a four day show that’s packed with exhibitors of all types of dance wear and accessories, a practice dance floor area and professional and amateur competitions.

The show is expected to be more popular than ever, helped in part by the resurgence of interest in dance and top audience-rated shows such as the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, says Louise Burridge, exhibitions project manager for the BIC.

“This is a show that has wide appeal for all types of dance enthusiasts, whether it’s coming along to enjoy the drama and tension series of exciting competitions or to see the latest ranges of all types of dance wear, from couture dresses to shoes and accessories. And, as it’s the new year, it’s perfect timing for anyone who has enjoyed watching the TV shows to come along and find out how easy it is to combine toe-tapping fitness with great fun,” she says.

The stands and exhibitors are in the Solent Hall and the competitions take place in the adjacent Windsor Hall. The Rising Star competitions take place on Tuesday 22 January, followed by the professional modern and amateur latin competitions on Wednesday and the professional latin and amateur modern events on Thursday 24 January.

The show organised by BIC exhibitions and the UK Rising Stars and dance competitions are presented by Dance News Special Projects Ltd. Entry is free to the exhibition area and tickets to view the dance competitions can be booked in advance through the BIC box office, with prices to watch the daytime sessions starting form £12.50 per person. The evening dance competitions on 23 and 24 January start at 7.30pm, with ticket prices from £18 and there is a pre-show restaurant available, plus for groups, there is the special concession of one free ticket for every 20 purchased. Opening times are 1pm to 6pm on Monday 21 January and Tues 22 –Thurs 24 January from 9.30am to 7.30pm.