Byd Bach Events is celebrating the huge success of its inaugural Community Interest Project, the Wales Dance Awards Competition 2025, which took place on Sunday, 6th April 2025, at the Pontio Arts and Innovation Centre in Bangor.

The event formed a vibrant part of the Bangor 1500 anniversary celebrations, honouring the city’s rich cultural heritage through the energy and joy of dance.

Thanks to the generous support of Bangor City Council, Pontio, and Adra Tai Cyf, Byd Bach Events brought a long-held dream to life, providing an inspiring platform for young dancers from across North Wales to shine.

Over 330 children took part in the competition, showcasing their talent to a packed and enthusiastic audience. Throughout the day, more than 800 people attended to support and enjoy the performances. The excitement and high standard of dancing led to awarding 38 trophies, along with over 300 placing ribbons, celebrating a wide range of achievements and efforts.

The dancers and their families travelled from all corners of North Wales to be part of the celebration, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the venue.

Special Outstanding Awards, selected by the judging panel, were presented to Vivienne Ivy Jones of Paris Cherie Dance Company and Abi Cullen from Pwllheli School of Dance, recognising their exceptional performances.

Co-Founders Ceri Bostock and Chloe Ellis said: “We could not be happier with how everything went, it was a huge success. The atmosphere was electric, the talent was phenomenal, and the support from the community was incredible. We’re so proud of what we achieved.”

Dr Martin Hanks, Director at Bangor City Council, added: “We were extremely proud to support such a fantastic event for young dancers. It created something truly special for Bangor as part of the 1500 celebrations, an event that brought people together in a meaningful and joyful way.”

The competition was thoughtfully designed to be inclusive and encouraging, featuring a medal for every child who participated, trophies for 1st to 4th place, and separate categories for mainstream schools and dance schools/groups. This structure ensured that every child had the opportunity to feel celebrated and valued on a professional stage.

The event was not only a celebration of dance but also a testament to community spirit, passion, and the creativity of young people in Wales.

Following the success of the April competition, Byd Bach Events has confirmed that the next Wales Dance Awards Competition will take place on Sunday, 9 November 2025.

For more updates and photos from the day, visit the Facebook Event Page: https://fb.me/e/3WMjXQy33 Or contact Byd Bach Events via email: bydbachcic@hotmail.com

Picture shows: Clwb Dawns Lowri and Ysgol Bontnewydd and Ysgol Llandwrog.

Photo Credit: Mel Parry.