Authorpe teenager gears up for national dancing finals

Joseph Tobin, 17, who attends Franklin College, qualified after taking part in the regional heat at the Cleethorpes Dance Festival at the end of March.

After a closely-fought battle, Joseph came out top with an incredible score of 
94 out of 100 marks.

He also won five other trophies at the festival – including highest score in ballet and highest score in duet – but his personal highlight is the opportunity to take part in the grand final of the elite Dance Master UK competition on June 12.

Joseph said: “When I was younger I always admired the dancers on the stage and always aspired to be like them.

“I knew I wanted to compete in the heat when I was old enough; last year I entered the heat and got second place by one point, so this year I was 
determined to do my best 
and try win the heat.

“It was a major shock to win, and I’m really happy I managed to get through.

“To have the opportunity to perform on the big stage is amazing, and I can’t wait to perform.”

Joseph added: “I’d like to think I will perform well at the finals, but with such a high standard at the competition all I can do is give it my best shot to impress the judges!”

The prize is a scholarship fund that can go towards a dancer’s training.

Joseph took up dancing at the age of seven, when it was believed that he had dyspraxia and that taking up a sport – such as dancing – might help with his coordination and movement. He said: “I was taken to my first dance class by my mum, and ever 
since I’ve fallen in love with it.”

Joseph’s dancing achievements haven’t stopped there. He was recently spotted by a talent scout at a dancing festival in Grantham, and was given the opportunity to audition for a three year course at Chantry School of Contemporary and Balletic Arts, plus a place on their senior associate 
programme – and he was successful on both counts.