The 24th annual dance festival, aptly titled 025 Dance “Iconic,” transformed the Regent Theatre in Stoke-on-Trent into a vibrant tapestry of artistic expression, paying homage to the cultural pioneers who have shaped our collective imagination. Organized by Creative Learning, the week-long event was a powerful testament to the transformative power of dance and its ability to celebrate extraordinary individuals who have left an indelible mark on our cultural landscape.
Under the masterful guidance of compère Caroline Sherratt, a distinguished British Ballet Association qualifier and former youth dance champion from 2016, the festival wove a narrative that transcended mere performance. Sherratt’s own remarkable background in dance lent an additional layer of authenticity and passion to the event, bridging the gap between historical icons and the emerging dance talent of today.
The festival’s core concept—celebrating icons who have inspired generations—was brilliantly executed through performances that paid tribute to legendary figures. Particularly noteworthy was the homage to Tina Turner, the rock and roll and soul music icon whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking artistry have inspired countless performers. Dance groups skillfully translated Turner’s powerful legacy into movement, capturing her fierce independence and transformative energy.
Multiple dance schools participated, each bringing their unique interpretation to the theme of cultural iconography. Belgrave St. Bartholomews Academy, Dance Fusion Community Dance School, Home Grown Youth Dance Company, Kidsgrove Care Solutions, Minnie Skerrett School of Dance, Ruskin Community High School, Stagecoach Uttoxeter, and St. John Fisher Catholic School demonstrated remarkable diversity and creativity in their approach. All the performances were stand out and the young people performed their hearts out.
There was a very special performance before the interval from The Kidsgrove Care solutions group, who finished their set with “This is me!”, who help adults and youngsters with disabilities in Staffordshire and Cheshire. The performance was packed full of energy.
What set this festival apart was its holistic approach to iconography. It wasn’t just about mimicking movements but about understanding and embodying the essence of cultural pioneers. Each performance seemed carefully choreographed to not just showcase dance technique, but to tell a story—to communicate the profound impact of individuals who have challenged societal norms and pushed artistic boundaries.
The week-long format allowed for a comprehensive exploration of the theme, giving each participating group the opportunity to delve deep into their chosen icons. From fashion revolutionaries to musical trailblazers, from visual artists to dance innovators, the festival created a rich, multidimensional narrative of cultural evolution.
For the audience, this was more than just a dance performance. It was an educational journey, a historical exploration, and an artistic celebration rolled into one. Young dancers didn’t merely perform; they connected with the legacies of those who came before them, understanding that dance is not just about movement, but about storytelling, resistance, and transformation.
In its 24th year, the Iconic festival proved that dance remains a powerful medium for cultural expression and historical remembrance. By platforming young talent and connecting them with the stories of legendary figures, Creative Learning has created more than an event—they’ve crafted a living, breathing tribute to human creativity and resilience.
The Regent Theatre resonated with the echoes of legends, reimagined through the passionate and precise movements of Stoke-on-Trent’s most promising young dancers.
Photo credit : AP Photography
