Earlier this week, 39 of our Year 7–10 students (plus 3 crew members) travelled to Portsmouth Guild Hall to compete in Dance Live! 2025 - a KS2-4 (+further education) dance competition, comprising of seven local schools and colleges.

Our journey to the stage started last year with an open audition for all Crookhorn students at any ability level to sign up and participate. From there, students rehearsed after school and produced and recorded their LED screen content and behind-the-scenes videos, led by our Dance Teacher, Mrs Street.

Our theme for this year's performance was 'Gossip Girl,' inspired by the hit TV series that follows the lives of privileged teenagers living in New York’s Upper East Side. The show is renowned for its themes of drama, secrecy, and scandal, all revealed through an anonymous blogger known as ‘Gossip Girl.’ Our performance brought this world of elite social circles, deception, and high-stakes drama to life through intricate choreography, expressive storytelling, and striking visual effects.

Students arrived at the Guild Hall around 1pm, enthusiastic and ready to showcase their talents. After two onstage rehearsals and a warm-up, it was time to go to our green room for hair, makeup, and costuming before the doors opened at 7pm to a sold-out audience of parents, friends, and school staff coming to support the array of talent on the stage.

Crookhorn's performance was phenomenal, with judges praising the immersive storytelling, dynamic and daring lifts, and seamless integration of the LED screen elements that perfectly captured the intrigue and glamour of 'Gossip Girl.' The routine featured impressive acrobatics, synchronised movements, and striking visuals that transported the audience straight to the Upper East Side.

Crookhorn was awarded the prize for the best use of the LED screen, and students and staff left the event with a great feeling of pride and accomplishment. Despite us not placing this year, we had a very enjoyable day. Students have shown amazing commitment since September and, during this time, they have made friendships and memories for life. Mrs Street is extremely excited about next year and planning has already begun for Dance Live 2026!

All our students agreed—Dance Live! 2025 was an unforgettable experience, and they are excited to sign up and compete again next year!

Well done to all the students who took part.