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Dance legacy resurrected

2/ 5/2008

TWO years after fire destroyed one of Manchester's most famous dance halls, its spirit is set to rise from the ashes through a unique art project.

Finnigans dance academy, which was based on Queens Road, Cheetham Hill, burned down in 2006.

Established in 1877, it was here that owner James Finnigan invented 'The Military Two Step', a dance that was later developed by his daughter Ethel in 1903.

Now artist Lucienne Cole is resurrecting the style at Whitworth Art Gallery as part of a "dance project" called The Whitworth Social.

A spokesman for the gallery said: "The idea of The Whitworth Social follows a lifelong tradition and history of dance hall get-togethers where people from all walks of life joined in a unifying experience.

"The focal point of the evening's programme will be in the participation of 'The Military Two-Step'.

"The dance has not appeared on a programme for many, many years, so we are hoping to make our own mark on dance history in Manchester."

Lucienne said: "I wanted to find a dance that was significant to Manchester and here it was. It's even mentioned in The Smiths song, 'The Headmaster Ritual'.

"It has been quite difficut finding someone who knows the dance, but now I can do it myself! Its not too difficult. I’m hoping that we can teach it to as many people as possible."

The free event, which takes place on Saturday 17 May from 7pm to 10pm, will feature a variety of dance presentations from down the years, with music courtesy of local DJ and writer Dave Haslam.

Lucienne wants to hear people's stories and experiences of dancing and music in Manchester, especially to do with 'The Military Two Step'.

Anyone who has a story or would like to attend the event can email whitworth.projects@googlemail.com or call the gallery on 0161 275 7450.