5 February 2026
At the start of 2024, the British Dance Council introduced an exciting change, following a recommendation from the Sequence Advisory Committee, professionally qualified entrants in Inventive Dance Competitions can now be partnered by a non-qualified dancer.
This ruling has opened up new opportunities for ISTD members, giving them greater flexibility and creativity when entering these prestigious events.
A fresh perspective on inventive dance
To explore what this means in practice, Ballroom, Latin American and Sequence Committee Member Michelle Chapman spoke with ISTD professional Nigel Bradshaw and amateur dancer Frances Sampson about their recent experience competing in an Inventive Dance Competition.
Nigel, who runs the successful Dancezone school on the south coast, has guided many Classical Sequence students to medal success and finals at Blackpool. Earlier this year, he entered the West of Britain (Bedworth) Modern and Latin Sequence Inventive Competition, submitting an online Classical entry, a Gavotte, partnered by Frances, a long-time family friend and passionate amateur dancer.
From ballet to ballroom: Frances’ journey
Frances began ballet at an early age and joined her local ISTD school, Adeline Dance Studio, at five. Private lessons with Michelle Chapman later introduced her to Classical Sequence, a style that immediately resonated with her:
“Bringing together my love of ballet and ballroom, it felt like the perfect combination.”
Nigel’s own journey started at age four under Alan and Pauline Grassby, training across Modern Ballroom, Latin American, and Classical Sequence. His competitive career took him to Blackpool, where he proudly reached the Under 21 British Championship final.
The impact of the new rule
Both dancers agree that allowing professionals to partner amateurs in Inventive Competitions is a game-changer. Nigel explains:
“It brings new dynamics and energy, and certainly stirred and re-ignited that competitive streak in me. It’s also encouraging to see newly qualified teachers getting involved, it keeps the tradition alive while pushing creativity forward.”
From an amateur’s perspective, the change feels equally significant to Frances:
“It’s fantastic to have this opening for amateurs. For those on the cusp of professional exams, it’s an opportunity to extend their studies and explore creativity. It really feels like a stepping stone into the professional world.”
Creating ‘Keith’s Gavotte’
Nigel chose to choreograph a Gavotte in memory of his late brother Keith, blending tradition with modern flair by using a string quartet version of Yellow by Coldplay, featured in Bridgerton.
“I wanted something that felt personal and meaningful, but also fresh and appealing to today’s dancers,” he says.
For Frances, learning the intricate combinations was both challenging and exciting:
“Once I got my head around whether I was in 3rd or 5th position, front or rear, we were well away! It was a real test of focus, but also so rewarding.”
The online format
Entries were submitted via video, with winners invited to perform and teach their dance on competition day. Nigel admits:
“Filming adds a different kind of pressure, you know the judges can rewind and watch every detail. It really pushed me to refine every aspect of the choreography.”
Frances found the experience nerve-wracking in a different way:
“Even though we weren’t in front of a live audience, I still had nerves. Presentation mattered, so we chose a simple but classic emerald green dress to complement the style.”
How the experience shaped their dancing
Both dancers felt the process improved their technique and confidence. Nigel says:
“It consolidated my study of Classical Sequence and gave me new ideas for teaching.”
For Frances, the experience also prompted her to reflect on her own future in dance:
“It’s inspired me to consider starting my Associate journey. It showed me how creative and rewarding this side of dance can be.”
Advice for ISTD members
Inventive Competitions offer a chance to challenge yourself, explore creativity, and bring fresh choreography to your students. Nigel notes:
“My dancers welcome the opportunity to learn figures beyond their current syllabus, it offers new challenges and keeps things exciting.”
Frances’ advice to other dancers is simple:
“Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. It’s a fantastic way to grow as a dancer.”
Ready to take the leap?
Whether you choose Modern Ballroom, Latin, or Classical Sequence, Inventive Competitions are a fantastic way to showcase your artistry and push boundaries. With new rules creating more flexibility, now is the perfect time to get involved.
