AS dance fever grips the nation, the borough is bracing itself for the biggest festival the area has ever seen.

'Dance Fusion', a week-long dance extravaganza, featuring performers from throughout the area, kicks off in March at Lowton Civic Hall.

Organised through a partnership between Wigan and Leigh Dance Network, Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust and Fred Longworth High School, it will be launched with an evening showcase on Saturday, March 18.

The event will see more than 16 dance schools performing, with styles ranging from Latin, ballet, street dance, tap, and even belly dancing. The list of performers includes Broomfield Academy, Apple Dance Centre, Zenith School of Dance, Studio 5 Dance Company, Northwest All Stars and L & L Superstars.

Vicky Fletcher, arts development officer for the trust, said: "This will provide a fantastic opportunity to showcase and celebrate the dance scene in the borough, as well as developing and increasing access to workshops for the wider community.

"We have a vibrant dance scene, but we are constantly looking to increase numbers and the quality of the performances.

"Dance Fusion will introduce new people to the dance network and highlight the quality talent we have. We have attracted attention from groups from as far afield as Southport and St Helens."

Following the showcase event, a range of dance workshops and events will be held from March 18 to 25 when the community will have the chance to participate in a diverse range of activities.

These will be open to young people, adults, senior citizens and people with disabilities. Judith Kershaw, from the trusts Active Living team, said: "Dance is the most natural form of physical activity and is a fun and social way to increase health and fitness.

"Our dance workshops are suitable for all abilities and it is a great way to get all of the family involved.

"It is exciting working alongside the dance network. They are all enthusiastic and dedicated people, who are determined to put their time into benefiting people who might usually be unable to get involved in dance activity."

The showcase event and week of workshops/activities are all free, but pre-booking is required.

A full programme will be published soon.

For further information contact Vicky on 01942 486918 or for details of the workshops, the Active Living team on 01942 828572.