Saturday 5th October 2019 was host to the 15th Annual UK Fun Competition at the Rivoli Ballroom, South East London. The Fun Competition, aimed at starter couples, beginners and improvers has been led to date by Mr Vernon Kemp, who also announced this year that this would be his final year, retiring from running the competition after a decade and a half of dedication. He’s put years of passion and commitment into providing an open door to new couples and many people in the room paid tribute to this competition and the part it has played in helping them take to the floor for the first time in their competitive pathways.
With 15 categories to enter in just under four hours – there is ample opportunity for dancers to compete alongside their friends in all of these single dance competitions, free from the pressure or rigid structure of a regulated competition.
Midway through the competition, spectators had the fantastic opportunity to watch a demonstration dance from latin duo, Jo Taylor & Louise Hunt – who delivered a characteristic and entertaining Paso Doble all the way from sunny Brighton. Shortly followed by a remarkably upbeat, camp and sassy performance from Gay Games Showdance Finalists, Tiago Caria and Andre Reina (Portugal).
Vernon may well be retiring, but he is delighted to be handing the reigns of the Fun Competition over to Pete Meager, who for the past few years has been committed to providing more social and competitive opportunities to equality dancers around the UK. We look forward to his debut at the 16th UK Fun Competition on Saturday 3rd October 2020. Thank you to everyone who took part this year, we hope to see more of you there next year – you can even book your tickets online in advance! https://www.facebook.com/events/2124901921138598/