August 2009

This month we look at ways in which the past can inform the future, with Paul Harris concluding our coverage of the Blackpool Dance Festival, now in its 84th year (page 20), and ballroom legend Peter Eggleton reflecting on his own 50 years at the festival (page 28). Ballet star Adam Cooper’s career has spanned all aspects of performance, and he talks to Alison Kirkman about how this varied experience has led to the creation of his new show, Shall We Dance, on page 14. Looking forward to a new chapter in their lives, cover stars Peter and Kristina Stokkebroe, who are expecting their first child in November, form part of a wider discussion on pregnancy and parenthood (page 34); and, ten years after introducing the first qualification for salsa instructors, Elder Sanchez and Ansell Chezan reveal how they have teamed up once again (page 40). Finally, in a bid to refresh the format of “Strictly Come Dancing” as the seventh series approaches this autumn, the BBC has begun to announce changes to the line-up, including the replacement of choreographer Arlene Phillips on the judging panel. In this particular case, however, I can’t help wondering if this is a decision that will be looked back on with regret.
Katie Gregory