The Angela Rippon Dance Challenge
It’s all about dancing together, enjoying movement, and raising money for charity.
A National Fundraiser for 2026
The Angela Rippon Dance Challenge is an exciting new initiative launching in 2026, combining participation, performance and fundraising to support young dancers across the UK.
Led by Angela Rippon CBE and delivered by All England Dance, the challenge celebrates the lasting value of dance – supporting wellbeing, connection and opportunity at every stage of adult life.
About the Challenge
The Angela Rippon Dance Challenge is a nationwide sponsored dance event open to adult groups aged 21 and over, of any style and level of experience.
Dancers will perform their groups at each of the seven AED Finals, raising funds through their participation to support scholarships, workshops and development opportunities for young performers. The winner of each Regional Final will go on to represent their region at the AED National Finals.
Much like a sponsored walk or run, this is a sponsored dance, with fundraising at its core. Except it will be more fun!
How It Works
- All England Dance’s seven regions will each select one group to represent them
- Up to 15 groups may enter in each region
- Winner of each of the seven Finals progress to the AED National Finals in Eastbourne on 2nd August. at the AED National Finals.
Entries are submitted via the AED Connect system (see button below).
All participating groups will take part in AED’s official JustGiving campaign.
National Finals & Golden Envelopes
The seven Finals winners will perform live at the AED National Finals in Eastbourne on 2 August 2026.
In addition, a small number of Golden Envelopes will be awarded to groups who demonstrate outstanding commitment to fundraising. These groups may also be invited to perform at the National Finals, before a judging panel including Angela Rippon CBE.
Awards
Awards presented at the National Finals include:
- Overall Winner
- Runner-Up
- Most Money Raised by a Group
- Most Money Raised by an Individual
- Most Entertaining Performance
- Best Innovative or Creative Costume
Why Take Part?
Participation in the Angela Rippon Dance Challenge directly supports the charitable work of All England Dance.
Additional fundraising enables further scholarships, free nationwide workshops and increased access to dance opportunities for young people across the UK.
Who Can Take Part?
The challenge is open to adult groups aged 21 and over, from any dance background or style.
Participants may be professional or amateur, returning to dance after many years or taking part for the first time. Dance offers recognised physical, mental and social benefits, while providing a shared goal and a positive group experience.
Rules & Performance Guidelines
To ensure consistency across all regions, the following guidelines apply:
- Groups must include 5-30 dancers
- Maximum performance length is 3 minutes
- Music and themes must be suitable for all audiences
- Props are permitted (maximum weight 10kg) and must be carried on and off by performers
- Groups have 20 seconds to be ready on stage
Fundraising & Entry
Groups wishing to take part are invited to submit an entry application using the button below.
There is a £10 entry fee per group, payable once an application has been accepted. Each group commits to raising a minimum of £200, either collectively or through individual fundraising within the group.
Once accepted, participants will be provided with an official JustGiving fundraising page through All England Dance. All funds raised directly support AED’s charitable work.
