Strictly Northampton announces partnership with local lifesaving charity

The highly anticipated annual dance competition, Strictly Northampton, is thrilled to have partnered with the Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air Ambulance (WNAA) for its 12th-anniversary event.

Organised by Step by Step Dance School, owned and operated by Andrzej Mialkowski, this year’s competition is poised to be a spectacular showcase of talent, all in support of a vital cause – the local air ambulance.

Taking place on 16 November 2024, at the Derngate Theatre in Northampton, Strictly Northampton promises an evening filled with dazzling performances where contestants will compete in a variety of dance styles, including ballroom, Latin American, and a freestyle group dance.

Each participant, comprising both men and women, will be paired with experienced dancers/instructors from the Step by Step Dance School, undergoing eight weeks of rigorous training.

What sets Strictly Northampton apart is its dual mission of entertainment and charity. Not only will the event entertain audiences with its captivating performances, but it will also serve as a platform for fundraising, with all proceeds directed towards supporting the lifesaving missions of WNAA.

Andrzej Mialkowski, the visionary behind Strictly Northampton, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to join forces with the Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air Ambulance for this milestone event. Strictly Northampton has always been about using dance as a force for good, and I have no doubt that together, we will make a significant impact in supporting the invaluable work of the local lifesaving charity.”

In addition to the live event, fundraising efforts will be supported by a JustGiving page for the contestants, with a target of raising a minimum of £1,000 per contestant.

“We are looking forward to starting the training with our dancing couples, however, I’d like to emphasise that we are still seeking more male participants to apply,” added Andrzej.

Applications are still open for aspiring male contestants. Interested individuals are encouraged to seize this opportunity to showcase their talent while making a meaningful difference for their local air ambulance, WNAA.

Within minutes, WNAA’s critical care crews can be on the ground delivering pre-hospital critical care and giving patients the very best chance of survival – this vital service relies entirely on donations to raise the £2,300 needed for each rescue mission, as the charity receives no government or National Lottery funding.

Among the applicants set to participate in the event, Northampton Community Fundraising Executive for WNAA, Karen Hughes stated, “We would like to say a big thank you to Andrzej and everyone else involved at Step by Step Dance School, for choosing to support our lifesaving charity.”

“The charity relies on generous donations to keep attending its vital missions, and we rely on the support from the local community and wonderful events like these to raise the £2,300 we need for each rescue mission,” she expressed.

Strictly Northampton 2024 is poised to be an unforgettable event, and with the support of the public and the dedication of its participants, the event aims to surpass previous fundraising milestones and put on a great show.

For regular updates and to enquire, please visit the Step by Step Dance School’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/StrictlyNorthamptonUK or email: [email protected]