British Open Dance Championships and Blackpool Junior Dance Festival postponed because of pandemic

The 73rd Blackpool Junior Festival will now be moved from April to August 12-16 2021 with a separate dedicated weekend of formation championships which will be announced soon.

Michael Williams, Managing Director of the Blackpool Festivals, said: “Following a series of detailed deliberations this is a decision that we have not taken lightly, and we have done so with the highest regard for public health and the wellbeing of all those who come together to make the Festivals so successful. Following thorough and extensive consideration of all scenarios, we believe that it is ultimately the right decision to now reschedule this years Festivals. With the likelihood that the Governments measures will continue for many months with the added challenges for international travel, it is our view that we must act responsibly to protect the large numbers of people who attend the Blackpool Festivals.”

Michael added: “While in some ways this has been a challenging decision, we strongly believe it is in the best interests of everyone at this time to reschedule the Festivals. I appreciate the support of Blackpool Council in coming to this decision and I would like to thank the UK Government and public health authorities for their guidance and advice. At this time, we are still planning to stage the 2021 Blackpool Sequence Festival, The Freestyle Championship and the British National Championships and updates will be provided on a regular basis.

“I would like to thank all those who support the Blackpool Festivals for their understanding in these unique and unquestionably challenging circumstances. It is their passion for the Festivals that has shaped our events over the years and will continue to do so in the future”.