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.
Every £3000 helps to support a dancer for just one year.
About the Challenge
The Angela Rippon Dance Challenge is a nationwide sponsored dance event open to adult groups aged 18 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 18+, 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 (we will still consider entries from groups of less than 5).
- 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the performance taking place?
When is the closing date for entries?
- Entries may close before this date if we reach capacity.
- Secure your place now and pay your £10 entry fee later.
How are entries selected?
Entries are selected on a first come, first served basis.
When will I know if my entry is successful?
- Once you submit an entry, you will receive a confirmation email that your entry has been received.
- Our team will then review your application and send you an email with further information over the next few days.
What is the age limit to enter?
I do not belong to a dance school or performance group. Can I create my own group?
- Yes! If you and a group of friends would like to create your own group for this challenge, please do enter, start choreographing and start fundraising! Let us know if you have any questions.
- We ask you to tell us a bit about your group on the entry form, so we’d love to know who you are and how your group was formed!
My group has less than 5 people – can I still enter?
- Yes. We will still consider entries from groups of less than 5. Please do submit an entry.
- Please do bear in mind that we are asking each group to fundraise a minimum of £200.
Which region will I be allocated?
- You can select your preferred region on the entry form.
- We will confirm your region once we confirm your entry is successful.
- Regions are allocated on a first come, first served basis.
I have a question, who should I send this to?
Please send any enquiries to archallenge@all-england-dance.org.uk
