The British Red Cross is seeking groups of young dancers from Hampshire to participate in next year’s ‘Dance: Make Your Move’ competition (previously Dance for Life).

Primary schools, secondary schools and special schools, colleges, dance groups and youth groups are all invited to get involved and choreograph a dance routine that reflects an aspect of the Red Cross’ life-saving work in the UK or abroad.

Participants must be under 18: junior groups are aged 4 – 11 and the senior category is for 12 – 18-year-olds. Regional heats will be held in the spring, and the national final will be held for the second year running at the prestigious IndigO2, part of the O2 centre in London’s Docklands.

The dance event is set to be bigger and better this year than ever before, with over 40 performances due to take place at theatres and performing arts centres across the UK between March and July. Dance routines should be between three and eight minutes long, and can use movement, music or costume to reflect the work of the Red Cross in some way.

Red Cross Hampshire fundraiser Charlie Martin, said: “By taking part in Dance: Make Your Move you could join the 20,000 young performers from across the country who have already come together to do something amazing for charity and celebrate the work of the Red Cross through dance. Since 2006 we have raised £300,000, and this year we hope to raise even more money for vulnerable people in crisis in the UK and overseas.”

“Dance:Make Your Move is always hugely popular with young people. Last year young people in Hampshire raised over £13,000. Dance is something they tend to get really passionate about. It gives them a chance to work as a team, be physical and also really creative.

“We have had dances inspired by the bombing of Hiroshima, child soldiers, the 7/7 London bombings, medical loan equipment and the Red Cross fire and emergency support service. It’s always interesting to see what the groups come up with. They get to learn about the Red Cross, raise money for the charity through sponsorship and have a good time!”

Dance: Make Your Move is dedicated to bringing young people from local communities together and introducing pupils to dance as a medium to overcome cultural, social and physical barriers. The event is open to everyone regardless of their ability. Young performers can enjoy dancing while raising money for the world’s largest humanitarian network.

Pupils also get the chance to work in their local communities on exciting fundraising activities, while gaining essential life skills through a choice of humanitarian action teaching resources.

To find out more information about dates and venues near you or to register for Dance: Make Your Move, visit www.redcross.org.uk/dance or call 01962 891680.

Hampshire dates for Dance: Make Your Move 2012 Local competitions: 28 April- Wildern School, Hedge End 19 May- Wildern School, Hedge End 31 May- The Lights, Andover 23 June- Festival Hall, Petersfield Area final: 7 July- St Swithuns School, Winchester National final: 15 July- IndigO2, London