Arts, Education | Posted on April 29th, 2026 | return to news

Bournemouth dance teacher celebrates boy dancers

More than 70 boys from across the UK took part in the annual National Boys Dance Day in London.

More than 70 boys aged seven to 17 from across the UK — including participants from Germany, Jersey and Scotland — came together on Sunday 19 April at Pineapple Dance Studios, London for the annual National Boys Dance Day, a celebration of male dancers aiming to break stereotypes in dance.

The day was founded Bournemouth dance teacher Natalie Pearl, of First Position School of Dance. She created National Boys Dance Day to inspire boys in dance, provide specialist training opportunities, and build confidence through connection with others who share the same passion.

The boys took part in a packed day of specialist workshops, solo performances, and pop-up street performances in central London. Dancers also performed a powerful group routine that had been learned remotely in advance and brought together in person in under an hour before taking to the stage.

The workshops were led by professional male dance artists, including Daniel Hope whose stage credits include ‘Jersey Boys’, ‘Wicked’ and ‘Matilda’, and screen appearances in ‘Harry Potter’ and BBC productions.

Hope said: “It’s been amazing to see so many people so enthusiastic about dancing and musical theatre. There’s often a stigma against guys doing this sort of thing, when it’s actually really athletic and amazing. So it’s really encouraging to see the next generation.”

The event highlighted the growing demand for opportunities dedicated to boys in dance.

View more photos here: https://www.jaynejacksonphotography.co.uk/p/65629scs