Friday 6 February 2015 Dance fans are in for a treat next week when top ballroom duo Natalie Lowe and Ian Waite step out under the glitterball at a Leeds school. The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) will host an evening with Natalie and Ian, during which the popular pair from BBC TV’s Strictly Come Dancing will showcase their favourite dances, hold a Q&A, and stay behind to sign photos at the end. Wear your dancing shoes as there will even be a chance for some audience participation! Originally from Sydney, Natalie joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2009, having made her name on the Australian version of the show. She loves the more traditional approach of the British show, which will be reflected in their performance in Leeds; as she says: “I’m a ballroom girl, and we’ll showcase seven dances, from the fiery tango to a beautiful waltz and a gorgeous Fred and Ginger number!” Natalie teamed up with Ian Waite for the professional dances on the BBC show, and they continue to perform together around the UK, while also developing a dance-based fitness programme along with swimmer Mark Foster. Their FitSteps venture came about after Mark, Natalie’s celebrity partner on the show, was impressed at the effect his Strictly training had on his fitness levels. FitSteps combines elements of popular Latin and ballroom dances with tried and tested fitness techniques. FitSteps is suitable for all ages, and Natalie is passionate about the positive impact that dancing can have on fitness and wellbeing. She said: “Dancing changed my life as a child, if I can inspire young kids to follow their dreams and think big that’s my main purpose.” An Evening with Strictly Come Dancing stars Natalie Lowe and Ian Waite takes place on Saturday 21 February at 7.00pm, at The Grammar School at Leeds, Alwoodley Gates, Harrogate Road, Leeds LS17 8GS. Tickets cost £25, including interval drinks, and must be booked in advance via www.gsalstrictlyevening.eventbrite.co.uk For further information call Louise Marshall at GSAL on 0113 229 1552. General News
