Previous Competitions

Cecchetti Southern Area Awards 2025

It was a real delight to see the happy, excited faces of the children arriving at the Hawth Theatre in Crawley to take part in the Cecchetti Southern Area Awards. From the moment the first dancers stepped through the doors, there was a lovely atmosphere of anticipation, joy, and community spirit.

These Awards were first introduced over 30 years ago with the purpose of encouraging pupils of Cecchetti teachers and giving them the chance to perform in front of an audience. The focus has always been on creating an opportunity for every child—including those who may only attend classes once a week—to shine and share their love of dance.

As with so many other activities, the Awards were sadly brought to a halt during Covid. That long pause made their return this year feel even more special. Thanks to the generous support of the Cecchetti Society Trust, we were able to relaunch the event in a new home at the Hawth Theatre. The venue could not have been better: easy to access, welcoming to families, and providing a lovely studio theatre with plenty of space for the children to perform with confidence.

The Awards are divided into four sections. The Junior section gives the youngest children the chance to dance a solo of their own, often their first experience of performing in front of an audience. The Lower Middle, Upper Middle, and Senior sections each involve a series of set exercises danced in groups, alongside a solo Long Enchainement which challenges the students to bring together artistry and technique in a longer performance. Watching the dancers across the sections, it was clear to see their enjoyment, hard work, and progress shining through.

We were honoured to welcome Elisabeth Swan, Chairman of the Cecchetti Society Trust, and Mechele Lefkaridi, one of the previous organisers of the Awards, as our adjudicators. Both offered such thoughtful, kind, and encouraging feedback to the dancers, which was gratefully received and contributed so much to the positive atmosphere of the day. The performances were beautifully supported by the sensitive and musical accompaniment of Osman Tack, whose playing lifted and inspired every dancer.

The return of the Cecchetti Southern Area Awards was truly a memorable and uplifting occasion. It brought together teachers, pupils, families, and supporters in celebration of dance and of the Cecchetti method. Above all, it gave the children a chance to experience the joy of performing, and to feel proud of their achievements. We look forward with excitement to building on this success and seeing the Awards continue to grow in the years ahead.

2025 Results