A VINTAGE tea dance to celebrate the most romantic day of the year is getting a special boost, with an appearance by a tv heartthrob.
Stockton’s Business Improvement District has announced details of Strictly Valentine’s – an afternoon event being held in a giant marquee in the High Street on14 February.
And along with the opportunity to dance to a live orchestra and enjoy an afternoon tea, attendees will be able to see a demonstration by Strictly Come Dancing star, Giovanni Pernice.
The Italian professional dancer and choreographer appeared in the last two series’ of the hit dance show, partnering Georgia May Foote and then Laura Whitmore.
And now he will be showing his moves to dance enthusiasts from across the North East at the one-off event.
Karen Hindhaugh, manager of Stockton BID, said it was a fantastic way to launch the programme of activities in the town.
“Strictly Valentine’s is the first of many events we will be running in the town,” she said.
“This is a great way to showcase what Stockton has to offer and we hope it will attract dance enthusiasts – and just people who want to have a lovely afternoon out – to come along.
“To get a dancer of Giovanni’s calibre is a huge coup for us and we can’t wait to welcome him.”
Tickets for the 1940s themed afternoon are £5 each and include afternoon tea. They are available from Rediscover Shop at Stockton High Street, or by telephone on 01642 528130. Numbers are limited so anyone interested is advised to book immediately.
Strictly Valentine’s will run from 2pm to 5.30pm and will also include music provided by top North East musicians, The Paul James Band.
The dance is one of a number of initiatives being introduced by Stockton BID to help boost the local economy and drive business in the town centre.
This includes creating better deals for companies with utility providers, looking at parking schemes and creating a programme of events to boost visitor numbers.