March 11 2010

Toes will be tapping away like crazy in the Tinwald War Memorial Hall this weekend.

The Ashburton Tap Dancing Association is holding its annual competition on Saturday and Sunday with competitors from Ashburton, Christchurch, Timaru, Temuka and Dunedin taking part.

Among the field will be four young Ashburton girls vying for honours.

Ashburton's Kirsten Clarke, 10, Katie Dolan, 8, Annabel Dolan, 6 and Isabella McDonnell, 5, will hold their home town's hopes in their hands when the procession of 60 youngsters hits the stage.

Open to both boys and girls, those taking part in the competition will be aged from three to 17.

The competition incorporates both jazz and tap classes, as jazz is becoming more popular and a lot of competitors learn both disciplines.

Entry to the hall will be free and the competition will run from 8.30am until 9pm on Saturday, and from 9am until about 3pm on Sunday.

Pictured: Getting ready to tap up a storm this weekend are (from left) Annabel Dolan, 6, Katie Dolan, 8, Kirsten Clarke, 10, and Isabella McDonnell, 6. - Photo Sarah Chamberlain 030310-SC-051