Get your dancing shoes ready for the Dance Carnival this weekend – a lively celebration of movement and music in the heart of town.

The free community event, part of the Arts Whakatāne Summer Festival, will take place at Wharaurangi (The Gap) on The Strand from 10am to 12.30pm tomorrow, Saturday, March 14, showcasing the rich variety of dance talent across the Eastern Bay.

Among the highlights will be the passionate rhythms and dramatic flair of Spanish dance performed by the flamenco group led by Evelyn Niederer.

Event co-ordinator Beryl Wilson said she had been delighted by the enthusiastic response from dance groups eager to perform in an outdoor “carnival” atmosphere.

“There will be hip hop, belly dance, jazz, line dancing, flamenco, salsa and Bollywood, and more,” she said.

“The audience will also have a couple of opportunities to join in during the concert.”

Beryl said the event highlighted just how much dance talent existed within the community.

“Dance encompasses many different genres, with a wide variety of musical accompaniments, so there will be something to appeal to everyone.”

Dancing offered many benefits beyond entertainment, she said.

“It’s great for fitness, coordination, social interaction and wellbeing. Dance is an integral part of so many cultures here and throughout the world. You might even be inspired to join one of the many dance groups that meet regularly in our community.”

Newcomers to this year’s carnival are a group of Bollywood dancers from Kids Dance with Abi.

The young performers will present an upbeat routine filled with energy, expressive storytelling and joyful moves that celebrate the spirit of dance.

Arts Whakatāne chair Sue Whale said the organisation was grateful for support from the Creative Communities Scheme and Trust Horizon.

“Without this funding, these great community events wouldn’t be possible,” she said.

Audience members are encouraged to bring their own chairs. If wet weather strikes, the carnival will move indoors to the Caledonian Hall at the same date and time.