Joanne Banham
Principal
A bit about Joanne
I started dancing at the age of 2, attending local freestyle dance classes with my sister. Taking to Ballroom and Latin at 16, I moved to a dance school in London to train under Paula Withers at Wright Rhythm for 5 years. I then went on to compete internationally as an amateur competitor and was spotted at the Dutch Open for Dancing with the Stars in 2019.
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Since my time on the show I have returned to the UK to further my coaching and teaching skills and continue to pursue my competitive career in the professional exhibition category with my partner Guy. Our greatest achievement so far is making the Professional Open Worlds Final at the famous Blackpool Tower Ballroom in May 2024.
Alongside this I compete in Pro-Am with my students and have had the joy of dancing with Nathan Morris on Britain's Got Talent making the live Semi-Finals in 2023, as well as live guest appearance on This Morning and BBC Breakfast.
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I am a qualified professional with the NATD, and award winner and an international adjudicator. Being a highly dedicated teacher, I have taken students from beginner all the way through to championship level.
Whether you're taking your first steps, starting your wedding dance, or looking to compete, I enjoy teaching students of all ages and abilities and creating a community and a safe space that people can flourish and enjoy being a part of.
Experience
NATD Professional
& Award Winner
I am a fully qualified NATD professional in Ballroom and Latin dancing. Winning the Mary Richardson Ballroom, Latin American Bursary Award 2024. I have also adjudicated at the National Finals held in Blackpool's Winter Gardens.
Professional Adjudicator
BDC License
She has the privilege of judging at the World Open Championships in Blackpool Tower multiple times, as well as the NATD Grand Finals in Blackpool Winter Gardens. Alongside judging ISTD, Varsity and DPA competitions, Joanne frequently judges charity Strictly events including TeensUnite at the Grosvenor Hotel in London.
Professional Exhibition Dancer
2022-current
Alongside her partner Guy Duggan, Joanne is world professional finalist at exhibition dancing. Finaling in the Blackpool Tower Ballroom at the Open Worlds May 2024.