Heywood to Hollywood: LA calls for Siddal Moor pupil Josh

Josh Spanswick

It’ll be an Easter to remember for Josh Spanswick, a pupil at Siddal Moor Sports College, who’s been selected to enter a top, global dance competition in LA this month.

Josh, aged 13, is a superb dancer in a variety of disciplines and he competes at a high level while maintaining excellent attendance and grades at school. 

Two years ago, Josh attended an audition for Dance Excellence and was selected to take part in the California-based, global dance event, where he will compete against dancers from 30 countries and four continents.

Josh has been preparing for this trip for almost two years: every Saturday he puts in five to six hours of dedicated training in all different styles of dance, as well as following an exercise plan to build strength and stamina.

He said: “I can’t wait for this, I’ve been working really hard and to be chosen for such a prestigious competition is a huge moment for me.”

Josh and his dance team will travel to LA on Saturday 13 April ready for the competition. While there he will take part in a wide variety of dance workshops and receive over 30 hours of training by top industry master teachers and choreographers, who have worked on films such as 'La La Land' and 'Step Up' in the entertainment capital of the world.

As well as experiencing all that Hollywood has to offer, Josh will get to perform on stage at Disneyland California and dance in the competition he has worked so hard to prepare for.

With just one more big rehearsal to go, Josh will perform a showcase for family and friends before final preparations for the trip.

Headteacher Simon White, said: “We wish Josh all the very best with fulfilling his dreams of becoming a professional dancer. We're sure his hard work and dedication will pay off. Well done Josh, you’re truly inspiring.”