Dance Carnival Returns to Whakatāne, Celebrating Community and Creativity

Dancers from all corners of Whakatāne will light up the stage this weekend at the Dance Carnival, uniting the community in a lively celebration of movement, music, and connection.

Organiser Beryl Wilson said the event is all about showcasing the wide variety of dance available locally while creating a space where dancers of all ages can come together.

“It's a celebration of dance and brings all the local dancers together,” she said.

“All the different genres like we've got hip-hop, and we've got salsa, we've got rock and roll, line dance, you name it!”

The carnival highlights the opportunities for people who may want to try dance for the first time to explore the possibilities, while also supporting local instructors.

Beyond entertainment, Wilson explained that dance plays an important role in people’s wellbeing and social lives.

“It's really good for well-being, coordination, it's a social thing as well,” she said.

The event also provides valuable performance opportunities for young dancers, including students from Steps Dance School.

“It gives them another opportunity to perform in front of a mixed crowd.”

All sorts of dances will be on display, from hip-hop to salsa and even line dancing. IMAGE: Arts Whakatāne

The carnival has grown steadily since its inception around 15 years ago.

“Started small and morphed into a great popular event,” said Wilson.

She expects a strong turnout this year of two to three hundred people over the course of the carnival.

The programme will run for around an hour and 45 minutes and will include opportunities for audience members to get involved themselves.

“We've also got some get up and have a go line dancing, and also there's going to be a special finale.”

Beryl said community participation is a big part of the event’s charm.

“So everyone has an opportunity to get up and have a go as well. Audience participation's great.”

Whether people stay for the full programme or just drop in while passing through, Beryl hopes the event will offer something for everyone.

“It's something for everyone, the whole family.”

The Dance Carnival is this Saturday, 14 March, from 10am at Wharaurangi, Whakatāne.