Strictly star brings championship competition to 'stunning' Wicksteed Park dance floor in Kettering
A former Strictly Come Dancing professional will bring the Northants Open Championships competition to Wicksteed Park’s dance floor this weekend.
Kristina Rihanoff, who competed in eight series of the popular BBC One TV show, will host the event on Sunday, March 1 making use of Wicksteed Pavilion’s sprung dance floor.
The Russian-born Strictly star now lives in the county and founded Bespoke Ballroom, her dance academy based in Sol Central, Northampton.
Now in its second year, the competition day will see ‘stunning’ performances by children and adults showcasing Ballroom and Latin styles.
Kristina said: “This competition is about creating opportunity, raising standards and supporting the next generation of dancers.
"We have an outstanding panel of adjudicators, including former World and UK champions, and a fantastic programme of events for competitors ranging from age five through to senior categories.”
As well as enjoying the dance competition, spectators can also take to the floor under the Wicksteed chandeliers for some social dancing.
Kristina said: "It is an absolutely stunning place. It's so beautiful. It's a proper ballroom with a sprung floor, chandeliers and a mirror ball so it creates a really lovely atmosphere. It's absolutely breathtaking. Last year I had a different venue, but we need a bigger one this year.
“Wicksteed’s fields are beautiful with a lot of lovely attractions for the children, but it's the space which makes it special, because it's a really, truly beautiful venue with the gorgeous floor which obviously for dance is a big thing.
“I’m delighted that it has already grown significantly in its second year. The dance competition at Wicksteed Park is dedicated to young dancers who often do not have the financial means to compete at a national level. I launched this event for the first time last year, and I’m delighted that it has already grown significantly in its second year.”
Kristina’s long-term ambitions is to develop the competition into a nationally — and eventually internationally — recognised event.
She added: “I would like to publicly thank the generous sponsors who make this event possible.”
For tickets go to https://www.bespokeballroom.com/tickets.