The Road to Blackpool
The Medallist of the Year has been the NATD’s signature event since 2015. Held every July in the Empress Ballroom, it brings together dancers of every age and ability on one historic dance floor.
You cannot simply enter this prestigious event. Places are earned through area qualifying competitions held throughout the year, and our dancers secured theirs at the North Midland Ballroom qualifier in November 2025.
The Team
Our team this year included one juvenile, one junior, one youth and four adults, with Kim and Andrew partnering on the floor.
They were joined by a small army of parents, family members and supporters, who did an amazing job cheering on our dancers throughout the weekend.
How the weekend ran
- Friday, we travelled to Blackpool, settled in and enjoyed a lovely meal together at the Italian restaurant Caesars.
- Saturday, our younger dancers competed in Latin American, while the adults danced Ballroom.
- Sunday, the two styles swapped over, with the children dancing Ballroom and the adults competing in Latin American.
What always strikes me about Blackpool is the incredible team spirit. Everyone cheers each other on, shares advice and offers support, whether they are dancing, waiting to compete or simply enjoying the weekend together.
A standout moment
David, Ballroom Champion, 75 Years and Over
A brilliant result on the Empress Ballroom floor, and thoroughly deserved.
Everyone who danced this year did themselves and the school proud. However, when David took the Ballroom title in the 75 Years and Over category, the whole team was on its feet.
It was a brilliant result and a wonderful reminder that it is never too late to start dancing.
Ella’s first Blackpool
For one of our dancers, Ella, this was her first time competing at Blackpool. We asked her how she found the experience, and she could not have put it better herself:
Wow.. is a massive understatement. Blackpool was incredible and was more than I ever expected it to be. Dancing in the Winter Gardens was a great opportunity that is definitely a lifetime experience. The whole Regency family made my first time experience there even better as we all cheered each other on from the sides during everyone's dance, while having dinner's together after a long day. Dancing at the Winter Gardens Blackpool Finals 2026 has made me a lot more confident for future competitions.
Dancing in general has gained me amazing and long lasting friendships that will be forever while also forming a big and little sister bond. Blackpool also had the best pop up stand by amici_couture which was where I got my brand new ballroom dress from which looks stunning and also makes you feel more confident and relaxed when dancing.
Overall, my Blackpool 2026 weekend for a first timer was a great opportunity that I enjoyed and I can't wait to do it all over again next year.
- Ella
Just twelve months earlier, Ella had never competed at a national final. Her experience shows how much progress can be made in a relatively short time.
Could this be you in 2027?
The 2027 qualifying season is already underway, with the North Midland Ballroom qualifier taking place on Sunday 15th November 2026.
If you have ever quietly fancied competing, now is the time to start. With a full year ahead, there is plenty of time to build your confidence, develop your dancing and prepare for the qualifier.
Where to begin
- Never danced before? Start with a beginners’ class. You do not need a partner or any previous experience.
- Already dancing? Private lessons can help you prepare for a qualifier and give you the confidence to compete.
- Want to compete? Entries are made through an NATD teacher. Have a word with us and we will guide you through the process.
Your goal might be the Empress Ballroom, or it might simply be feeling more confident on the dance floor. Either way, we would love to help you take the next step.
Get in touch or drop into the Ballroom, and we will help you find the right class or lesson for you.