New London ballroom night

Fancy giving Strictly Come Dancing (www.strictlycomedancing.co.uk) hunks Austin Healey and Tom Chambers or Strictly babes Rachel Stevens and Lisa Snowdon a run for their money? Stardust Ball (www.stardustball.co.uk) has come to town – a sensational ballroom extravaganza in the Grand Hall at Fulham Town Hall.

Despite ballroom dancing’s rise in popularity over six series of the BBC’s hit show, there are surprisingly few full-scale social events in London. Stardust Ball fills that void with a monthly series of dance nights, beginning on Saturday, 8 November.

Dancers can take full advantage of an enormous 21.3m x 13.5m floor, and enjoy specially chosen music, exciting lighting effects and an exclusive cabaret by top professional dancers. In addition, the evening will begin with a basic dance lesson, so you can learn some steps before hitting the floor.

Co-founder of Stardust Ball and self-confessed dancing addict Mark Kendal said: ‘Given the number of keen dancers in Britain, from beginner through to professional, it’s astonishing that there aren’t more events that capture Strictly’s glitz and glam, particularly in its home town, London.

‘We want to give more people a chance to have a go at dancing or to show off their moves in an opulent setting, recapturing the magic of this most glamorous style of dance – and the Grand Hall is the perfect place to do that.’

Impeccably restored to its original Edwardian magnificence, Fulham’s Grand Hall is reached by a double marble staircase and features a treble-domed vaulted ceiling, painted columns, period chandeliers and an impressive proscenium stage.

Co-founder and dance teacher Melina Hamilton, who trained with Strictly star Karen Hardy, said: ‘The right venue is so important for dancing, particularly for this form. A beautifully lit big floor inspires a romantic waltz or dramatic tango, and the Grand Hall’s vibrant décor will help you let loose with a sexy rumba or fun jive.

‘Dancing is such an uplifting experience. It’s great for your health and fitness, and allows you to connect with people and to be transported to a different place and time, from 1940s America or Buenos Aires to carnival Rio or the palaces of Vienna.

‘Stardust Ball will be the ultimate celebration of ballroom dancing’s style and its power to bring people joy – just what Londoners need right now!’

As well monthly dance nights, the Stardust Ball team are also offering intensive four-week workshops in ballroom and Latin dancing. For more information, contact Mark Kendal on 07956 511074 or Melina Hamilton on 07951 742346, or visit www.stardustball.co.uk