A once-in-a-lifetime experience as our children join more than 300 performers to celebrate 150 years of Middlesbrough Football Club.
What an incredible day! Our children had the amazing opportunity to take part in a spectacular mass dance performance on the pitch at the Riverside Stadium, celebrating the 150th anniversary of Middlesbrough Football Club.
Alongside more than 300 performers from schools, colleges, dance groups and community organisations across Teesside, our children became part of something truly special.
The performance took place in front of a huge Riverside crowd of up to 30,000 supporters, just before Boro’s home match against Cardiff City. What an audience to perform to.
The event was produced by TeesDance and funded by Arts Council England. It brought together people aged from six to 79, using dance and original music to celebrate the people, stories and history of our wonderful region.
The performance told the story of Teesside and how our area has changed over the past 150 years, from its proud industrial heritage to the vibrant community we know today.
For many of the performers, this was their first experience of taking part in a live event on such a huge scale. It was a fantastic opportunity to step outside their comfort zones, build confidence and experience the excitement of performing together.
Our children showed fantastic courage, commitment and enthusiasm. Standing on the Riverside pitch, performing in front of thousands of people, is an experience they will remember for a very long time.
The day was also a wonderful celebration of our ARCH values:
- Ambition: Being brave, embracing new challenges and performing in front of a huge crowd.
- Respect: Celebrating our local community, its history and the talents of others.
- Collaboration: Working together with hundreds of other performers to create something extraordinary.
- Honesty: Being ourselves, showing courage and taking pride in our achievements.
This experience also celebrated our British Values, particularly mutual respect and individual liberty, showing how people from different backgrounds, ages and communities can come together through a shared passion.
A huge well done to all our dancers. You were absolutely amazing, and we are incredibly proud of every one of you.
Thank you to TeesDance, Middlesbrough Football Club and everyone involved in making this unforgettable opportunity possible.
More than just a dance. More than just a performance. A celebration of our children, our community and our incredible Teesside spirit.
Up the Boro!
