Let’s Dance! Dance for Parkinson’s Group showcase choreography as part of national dance event

English National Ballet (ENB) is delighted to have worked with Dame Arlene Phillips and Richard Roe on this specially created piece of choreography, in celebration of Let’s Dance 2026, demonstrating how dance inspires and benefits us physically, mentally and socially. 

We have made a step-by-step film and resource pack, available for anyone nationwide, alongside Dance for Parkinson’s groups, to learn the steps, adapt them for your own body and teach them to others to create your own unique version. Demonstrated by English National Ballet Associate Dance Artist Hannah Williams, and ENB Dance for Parkinson’s dancers, the film will take you through each section of choreography, with seated and standing adaptations available throughout. 

The film concludes with a full performance of the choreography from ten English National Ballet’s Dance for Parkinson’s dancers, who performed this piece at the Let’s Dance press launch. 

If you are interested in getting involved and exploring the choreography ahead of March 8th, please contact dancehealth@ballet.org.uk.

What is Let’s Dance! ?

Let’s Dance!, spearheaded by Angela Rippon CBE, is a national dance day which aims to raise awareness of the benefits of dance for both physical and mental health. The campaign brings people together and encourages those that don’t usually dance to give it a go. The mission is to get more people dancing together, regardless of age, fitness level or experience, with activity happening annually each spring.  

In 2025, over 20,000 dance teachers took part in the first Let’s Dance!, supported by many of the UK’s major dance organisations. This year, the campaign continues with support from English National Ballet, as well as the NHS and Parkinson’s UK. 

Ahead of the launch, Angela Rippon commented: “Last year’s national dance day was a huge success – and this time we want to make it even bigger. So get involved on Sunday 8 March – it’s an opportunity for the whole nation to join in and experience the benefits and joy of this health and fitness superpower.” 

How is English National Ballet getting involved with Let’s Dance! ?

As part of the Let’s Dance 2026 dance day, our Dance for Parkinson’s dancers have been working with Dame Arlene Philips and Richard Roe on learning and performing choreography to celebrate the national event. 

Having worked with English National Ballet’s Dance for Parkinson’s Group, Dame Arlene Phillips said: 

Dance has a truly magical power to make us feel good, but it can do so much more than lift our mood. It can transform our physical and mental wellbeing. Through Dance for Parkinson’s, I’ve seen the tangible difference even a short session can make for mind, body and spirit. The movement can support flexibility, balance and confidence; keeping time with the music helps keep the brain engaged; and the companionship, along with the sheer joy of it, gives people a real lift.   Let’s Dance is a wonderful chance for everyone to get involved. Whatever your age, ability or experience, it’s an invitation to move, connect and bring some of the magic of dance into your own life.

At the media launch of Let’s Dance! on Saturday 7 February, our Dance for Parkinson’s group was invited to perform at The Old Bailey Grand Hall alongside nine other dance organisations, with styles ranging from ballet to ballroom, and dancers ranging in age from 11 to over 80. Press were in attendance, as well as Strictly Come Dancing judge Dame Arlene Phillips, with BBC Breakfast covering the event  to raise awareness of the benefits of dance. 

How can I get involved in Let’s Dance!?

You can find out about events near you at the Let’s Dance!

What is English National Ballet’s Dance for Parkinson’s?

Established in 2010, English National Ballet’s Dance for Parkinson’s programme is industry leading. The initiative invites those living with Parkinson’s to experience the joy of dancing to live music, socialising and meeting new people and seeing live performances. Classes are open to people with Parkinson’s, along with their families, loved ones and carers. 

The components of the dance class, the artistic freedom and the social aspect of the programme can help with managing daily living with Parkinson’s. Dancing can enhance fluidity of movement, develop postural stability, flexibility of the spine and improve balance. The use of rhythm and voice can help with cueing movement and expression. 

Our classes are welcoming and full of joy! Inspired by the company’s classical and contemporary repertoire – from Swan Lake to Akram Khan’s Giselle, and from William Forsythe’s Playlist (EP) to Nutcracker, each term we creatively explore the themes, music and choreographic language and view the production on-stage or online. 

Find out more about Dance for Parkinson’s here.