First look at spectacular dance day set to transform Temple Newsam House this weekend

A marvellous day of movement, music and mesmerising performance is set to sweep visitors to Temple Newsam House off their feet this weekend.

The popular stately home in Leeds is set to be taken over by dancers on Saturday (Saturday 5). Stunning performances will take place across the grand halls and galleries as the house ‘Steps Through Time’.

From elegant historical steps to high‑energy contemporary styles, the event invites visitors to explore Temple Newsam House in a completely new way.

The Yorkshire Evening Post went down to get a sneak peek at the event. We caught some of the rehearsals from The Chinese Community School as the dancers prepared for Saturday.

Maya Harrison, keeper at Temple Newsam said: “It’s going to be incredible to see the house and its beautiful spaces brought to life by these talented performers, all paying tribute to the communities, cultures and artists who have played their part in the grand tradition of dance through the ages.

“These performances will really take visitors on a journey not just through dance, but through time and the history and heritage of the house and Leeds.”

There will be four different sessions throughout the day on September 5 with the first running from 11am to Noon (12pm). This will feature Temple Newsam's resident historical dance group Arbeau as well as a modern jazz class ready to wow audiences with a ‘fabulous’ routine inspired by the musical Sister Act.

During the first session, Patrick Miller Ballroom Dancing will be running workshops on how to glide across the ballroom. Teaching elements of Tango, Foxtrot, Quickstep and Waltz with no partner needed.

The fun will continue from 12.30pm to 1.30pm in the second session of the day. The dancers from the Leeds Chinese Community School will be in action in this two hour slot as well as the ‘Halifax Historical Dance’.

The latter will transport audiences back to the Regency era with a selection of dances from the time of Jane Austen and Anne Lister (the inspiration for BBC’s Gentleman Jack). Visitors can join them on the floor to learn and try some simple dances from the time themselves.

Meanwhile Dave & Lou will be demonstrating some classic Jive moves. They will provide an interactive introduction to some of the other dances associated with the 1940s, 50s and 60s music scene.

The third session of the day will run from 2pm to 3pm and see the return of Temple Newsam’s own Arbeau as well as the Halifax Historical Dance. So if you can’t make it earlier in the day, have no fear.

Finally, the fourth session is due to start at 3.30pm and will finish an hour later at 4.30pm. The RJC Dance Adult Community Class will bring a flavour of Caribbean Carnival to Temple Newsam House’s Picture Gallery.

During this final session, the Dance Tribe - which formed in Leeds in 2021 - will be running a taster class that is suitable for all ages and ability. Their new work, Daughters of the Land, draws on the group’s signature style and the poetry of Carol Ann Duffy.

Special guest Philty from HelloHipHop will be delivering a taster session in break dancing at this point in the day as well. Phil and friends will demonstrate Breakin’ before following up with an easy-to-follow mini dance session.

Coun Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for economy, said: “Dance has been a huge part of the heritage of Leeds and its communities for generations, and today the city is home to so many talented and diverse performers.

“Giving some of these dancers the chance to showcase their amazing abilities in what is one of our most historic and beloved heritage venues is a wonderful way to celebrate the art of dance and the spirit of community and performance that is such an important facet of the city’s culture.”