The Arts Council is delighted to have received record entries for the biennial Young Dancer of Mann Competition. The first round of the Competition will be held at the Studio Theatre at Ballakermeen High School on Sunday, 6th February 2011 and will be judged by Lynda Cardwell, Fellow and Examiner IDTA (Chairman of the Ballet Faculty), Registered RAD Adjudicator and Loraine Hastings, Fellow & Examiner IDTA. The dance styles to be judged, for both individuals and groups, are Classical Ballet, contemporary, character, Greek; Theatre Musical theatre, commercial theatre, modern jazz, tap; National Manx, Irish etc; Modern Trends Street Dance, HipHop, Freestyle. The competition is open to anyone aged between 6-18 living in the Isle of Man. Lloyd Mayor (pictured) was the winner of the Young Dancer of Mann Competition in 2009, with a contemporary dance piece he choreographed with Pippa Salter. Lloyd has since gone on to attend the world renowned Rambert Dance School. The winner of the Solo Competition will receive the Dixon Hughes Trophy for two years and the chance to travel to the UK to take a class in a dance studio or with a teacher of their choice. This is the first year there has been a group section and the winning group will receive the Best Group trophy for two years together with a workshop from a dance professional of their choice. The Final of the Competition takes place on Saturday, 5th March 2011 at The Studio Theatre at Ballakermeen High School. Unfortunately, due to the size of the venue, only competitors’ immediate family and friends will be allocated tickets. Mr Quintin Gill MHK, Chairman of the Arts Council said “We are delighted to have a record number of entrants in every category and look forward to some fierce competition.” Hon David Cretney MHK, Minister for Community, Culture and Leisure said “This is the third time the Young Dancer of Mann Competition has been organised by the Arts Council and it undoubtedly gives young people the chance to show their skills in many forms of dance and an opportunity to be judged by these highly qualified officials.” For further information please contact the Isle of Man Arts Council on 694598, email iomartscouncil@dtl.gov.im or visit www.iomarts.com . Ends