SCHOOLCHILDREN danced their hearts out in a spectacular evening of dance yesterday.

Youngsters from 18 schools and dance crews from across Brighton and Hove performed in Let’s Dance at Brighton Dome to a packed audience, filled with proud parents.

Last night’s performance was the second of four over consecutive nights in what is the largest celebration of school dance in the UK.

By the end of Thursday's finale more than 2,000 youngsters from nearly 75 schools, colleges, and community groups will have performed.

Yesterday morning The Argus attended rehearsals and caught up with excited children going through their performances.

Mile Oak Primary School Year 6 pupils somersaulted to Justin Timberlake’s Can’t Stop The Feeling.

Mia Macrae, 11, said: “It has been very fun because I’ve never really done dancing before but our teacher makes us feel like we can do anything.

“I feel like because of this experience I will dance again.”

Ben Short, 11, said: “After our rehearsal, I’m a lot happier and like Mia I feel I can dance for ever now.”

Proud teacher Jen Wilks said: “The children have worked really hard and have been rehearsing weekly after school and at home.

“They were so nervous but now having had the rehearsals they are all really excited about performing.

“For some of them it will be the first time they are performing on a stage and probably the only time, so it is a great experience.

“The people who organise this do a fantastic job.”

The event is organised and managed by Dorothy Stringer School with assistance from dance students from Varndean College who run backstage.

Katie Booth, Let’s Dance co- ordinator, said: “It’s such a fantastic event to be part of. It does take a lot or co-ordination but the children and young people really enjoy it and it’s great to see such a broad age range take part in the shows.

“Everyone involved puts in 110 per cent. It’s great to see so many smiling faces and fantastic dance moves. Well done to everyone taking part.”