Angela Rippon CBE, alongside Lisa Wainwright MBE, CEO of the Sport and Recreation Alliance, the City of London Corporation and a whole host of Strictly Come Dancing stars, are officially launching Let’s Dance! at the City of London’s Guildhall on Saturday 8 February.
The event, taking place in front of national media to raise awareness of Sunday 2 March – the national day of dance - features performances from 10 different dance groups from across the country, highlighting the potential of movement and dance to reach communities from a variety of backgrounds.
Let's Dance! is a national campaign spearheaded by Angela Rippon CBE, and supported by the Sport and Recreation Alliance, encouraging as many people as possible to get active and come together on Sunday 2 March. Dance organisations from across the country will be opening their doors as the public are invited to get moving, feel the health benefits of dance, and have fun.
The campaign has received widespread backing, with senior figures including Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting MP, and Chief Medical Officer, Professor Chris Whitty championing the benefits of dance. It follows research from the Sport and Recreation Alliance which demonstrates the enormous social value of movement and dance.
Angela Rippon CBE said:
“Don’t ever underestimate the power of dance as a total exercise for mind and body. You don’t have to be good at it – you just have to do it and enjoy it.
“It has enormous benefits for people living with, or recuperating from serious medical conditions. It really is the perfect way to maintain a strong and healthy body throughout your life into your senior years. You get fit, stay fit, and have a huge amount of fun.
“I defy anyone to dance without a smile on your face”
Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said:
“Angela is dancing up a storm to support this Government’s mission to rebuild the NHS and shift care from sickness to prevention.”
“Through our 10 Year Health Plan we will build a healthy society. And even if you’ve got two left feet, brilliant initiatives like Angela’s are a great way to keep fit, kick up your heels, and meet others – having a positive impact on your health and wellbeing while reducing your risk of developing serious illnesses.”
Lisa Wainwright MBE, CEO of the Sport and Recreation Alliance, said:
“The Sport and Recreation Alliance are delighted to have been involved in the creation and development of the Let’s Dance! campaign. Alongside members of our Movement and Dance division, we have long been advocating for the enormous benefits of dance, and are thrilled that Angela Rippon CBE will be fronting Let’s Dance! Day on 2 March.
“The event complements the Alliance’s broader missions to foster a more active, healthier nation; making it easier for everyone – regardless of age or background – to participate in sport, recreation, dance and physical activity and in doing so, provide significant economic and social value to the country.”
For more information about the campaign, and to find an event near you on Sunday 2 March, visit the Let’s Dance! website.
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