We’re so proud to announce our final Strictly Seashell total – a staggering £268,000.
Hosted by Gethin Jones, the event at Hilton Deansgate paid homage to Strictly Come Dancing and saw nine dancers taking to the stage to battle it out on the dancefloor in the hopes of bagging a 10 from judges Dr Ranj, Dr Punam, Strictly professional Neil Jones and dance professional Miss Andrea.
For the first time in Strictly Seashell history, one of the dancers included a Seashell student, Max! Max has has a learning disability and a chromosomal condition known as Smith-Magenis Syndrome (SMS) – a developmental disorder that affects many parts of the body and is associated with challenging behaviours. You can read more about Max here.
Max and his dance partner Hayley performed to Grease Lightning and received a standing ovation from the 400-plus audience, as well as a 10 from Max’s favourite judge, Dr Ranj!
“Max being at Seashell has opened so many doors,” said Max’s dad Andrew. “This was amazing for his self-esteem and his confidence – it’s something that we never thought he’d have the confidence to do.”
Max said he was “really proud” of himself and was so pleased to receive a 10 from Dr Ranj. He added: “It was really great. I’m very happy.”
The overall winner of the night was Hayley Showman, who secured full marks from all four judges for her Argentine Tango. Max also received the People’s Champion award for being the person with the most text votes from audience members.
The other dancers, who were partnered with professionals from Cadman’s Dance Academy were Anthony Prophet, Michelle Davenport, Sarah Restrick, Craig Barclay, Jess Edge, Herbie Hursthouse and Paula Gaddum. All chose dances from films including Scent of a Woman, The Barbie Movie and Romeo and Juliet.
The incredible £268,000 was made possible thanks to the dancers’ own fundraising before the event, ticket sales, and auctions held in the run-up online and live at the event. Guests were also invited to give a special gift after seeing an emotive video about Seashell student Imogen, whose parents were also there to talk about her story, which you can watch here.
Host Gethin Jones said: “I couldn’t quite believe my eyes when I saw the total appear. The money will help support young lives with complex disabilities and help them reach their full potential in life. Student Max is the epitome of this. What a night!”
The event was generously sponsored by Eric Wright Construction, Laltex, Bloor Homes, Slater and Gordon, Morson Group and Managed Ink. Watch the highlights video below for more.
