Young Dancer, Age 7, Shines in National Blackpool Dance Competition Finals
Excitement fills the air as seven-year-old Lily-Mai Hunter from Elmstead Market gears up to showcase her talent at the prestigious Blackpool Grand Finals dance competition. This young dancer has earned her spot in the national event, set to take place on November 2 and 3 at the iconic Winter Gardens, where she will be performing the waltz and cha cha cha.
Lily-Mai’s journey into the world of dance began at the tender age of five in 2022. According to her mother, Lorraine Hunter, she is described as a “kind, caring, and sassy little girl” who has shown a deep love for dancing from the start. With a family background in ballroom dancing, Lily-Mai’s interest in the art form was sparked by watching the popular TV show, Strictly Come Dancing, with her family on Saturday nights.
A Family of Dancers
The Hunter family, consisting of mum Lorraine, dad Andy, older brothers Max and Liam, and the star of the show, Lily-Mai, has always shared a passion for dance. Lorraine, who enjoyed ballroom dancing during her childhood, recognized Lily-Mai’s budding interest and enrolled her in classes at Feather Steps Dance Academy in Capel St Mary. Lily-Mai’s dedication to her craft has seen her participate in regional competitions in Cambridge and Ipswich, paving the way for her journey to the Blackpool Grand Finals.
A Rising Star in the Dance World
With a natural talent and a strong work ethic, Lily-Mai has already achieved success in her young dancing career. She has successfully completed two Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing exams in the under-six and under-eight age groups, showcasing her technical proficiency and dedication to the art form. Her dance repertoire includes ballroom and Latin styles such as the waltz, cha cha cha, jive, rumba, and quickstep, all of which she practices diligently in preparation for her competitions.
As she prepares to compete in the under-eight category at the Blackpool Grand Finals, Lily-Mai expresses a mix of emotions ranging from excitement to nervousness. She eagerly anticipates the opportunity to showcase her skills on a national stage and is especially looking forward to flaunting her new blue dress for the event. The entire Hunter family is bursting with pride at Lily-Mai’s accomplishments, with Lorraine emphasizing the significance of reaching Blackpool as a dancer.
“We are very proud of her for reaching Blackpool,” Lorraine said. “It is a special moment for us as a family, having visited Blackpool for holidays in the past. To see Lily-Mai on that stage competing against dancers from across the UK is truly a remarkable achievement.”
The road to the Blackpool Grand Finals has been filled with hard work, dedication, and unwavering support from her family and instructors. Lily-Mai’s commitment to her craft and her passion for dance shines through in every step she takes, setting her apart as a rising star in the dance world.
As the countdown to the Blackpool Grand Finals begins, Lily-Mai’s journey serves as an inspiration to young dancers everywhere, showcasing the power of perseverance, talent, and a love for the art of dance. With her eyes set on the grand stage of Blackpool, Lily-Mai Hunter is poised to make her mark and leave a lasting impression on the dance world.