A group of dancers from Badenoch and Strathspey has captured the top honor at the IDTA Nationwide Street Dance Finals in Blackpool. The Irun Bru Crew, composed of 11 women aged between 35 and 70, won the overall crew dance competition for participants aged 36 and over. The event, held on Sunday, attracted hundreds of entrants to the renowned seaside resort.
Performing a routine titled “Divas Mash-Up,” the dancers embraced their inner divas with a performance that showcased their passion and hard work. The routine was crafted by James Montgomery, leader of the Grantown-based JM Dance, with a soundtrack compiled by Floyd Konde, featuring iconic artists such as Beyonce, Cher, Whitney Houston, and Mariah Carey. Their victory came after competing against finalists Lush and Bad Formation.
Celebrating Success and Personal Growth
The dancers expressed their joy and disbelief at their achievement. Tracy Dalgleish remarked, “For me, it was a dream come true. As a child, doing something like this was a total dream and something I never thought I’d get the chance to do.” She emphasized the joy dancing brings to her life and the friendships formed through this journey. “The crew came together and smashed it. We’ve made memories for life,” she added.
Another dancer, LJ Fishpool, noted that their success would not have been possible without Montgomery’s guidance. “He somehow managed to take all of our different personalities, nerves, and energy and turn it into something joyful, expressive, and full of life,” she stated. Fishpool highlighted the importance of Montgomery’s belief in the crew, asserting that it fostered their confidence and bravery.
The experience in Blackpool was not just about competition but also about friendship, creativity, and personal growth. “This journey has been about far more than dance,” Fishpool continued. “It has been about friendships, creativity, laughter, and having something uplifting to focus on when life felt heavy.”
Hard Work Pays Off
Montgomery expressed immense pride in his students. “I’m so proud of each and every one of these amazing women,” he said. He described the experience as incredible, not only for winning but for representing Scotland at such a prestigious event. The crew also performed admirably in other categories, with several members making it to the semi-finals in solo performances and receiving high placements in duo and quartet events.
The dancers had dedicated themselves to rigorous training, practicing at Inverallan Church Hall in Grantown every Tuesday, along with additional rehearsal sessions. Over the past three years, they have explored various dance styles, including ballroom, salsa, and street dancing, showcasing their versatility and commitment.
Montgomery, who has previously served as a judge at the International Dance Teachers Association contest, encouraged his students to participate, despite initial hesitations. The decision proved fruitful, culminating in their well-deserved victory.
To celebrate their achievement, the Irun Bru Crew will perform their winning routines at Grantown Grammar School on Tuesday evening from 20:15 to 21:15. This event will also include a raffle for prizes donated to support their participation in the competition.
The full results from the IDTA Nationwide Street Dance Finals 2026 can be accessed through official channels, highlighting the remarkable achievements of this inspiring group of dancers.
