The Southbank Centre is hosting a digital concert on 18 December that aims to combat loneliness. The Winter Tea Dance features live jazz music and dance that people can join in with at home.
Judges from the BBC show Strictly Come Dancing will host the event, which includes foxtrot, waltz and tango steps, alongside jazz numbers performed by ensemble Tomorrow’s Warriors.
Strictly Come Dancing’s head judge, Shirley Ballas, said: “The Southbank Centre’s virtual winter tea dance is a brilliant way to get dancing at a time when we are unable to physically access our local arts centres and dance classes. It’s so important to keep active and keep our spirits up and I hope people of all ages across the UK join in from their living rooms and kitchens, as well as everyone in care homes across the country.”
Added Alexandra Brierley, director of creative learning at the Southbank Centre: “While we might not be able to meet together in person this time, we hope that we can bring the joy of dance and music to so many people through our partnerships with care providers nationwide.”
Southbank Centre is partnering with the National Activity Providers’ Association to deliver the event. Hosted in the Royal Festival Hall Clore Ballroom, it will be broadcast in more than 3,000 care homes across the UK.
The Winter Tea Dance is a free event. More information is available at southbankcentre.co.uk.