A talented tap dancer is preparing to represent his country on the world stage for a second year running.
Jack Courage, 19, from Surbiton, has been selected for Team UK at the IDO World Tap Dance Championships, taking place in Prague from October 20 to 25.
Following his debut on Team GB in 2025, Mr Courage competed in the highly competitive male adult category and secured an impressive sixth-place finish.
Read more
Community hall set for revival after major funding boost
Choir concert to celebrate church's 150th anniversary
Mr Courage said: "Representing Team UK for a second year is an incredible honour and something I've worked towards every day.
"Finishing sixth in the world last year showed me what is possible, and I'm determined to keep improving and give everything I have in Prague. I'm so grateful to everyone who has supported me throughout my journey so far, and any sponsorship or encouragement from local businesses and the community would make a real difference in helping me compete on the world stage."
A dancer since the age of five, Mr Courage began his training at the Sylvia Young Theatre School in London after earning a full scholarship at age 10.
His resume includes appearances in the Evita UK Tour, Channel 4’s Talented Tots, and a role in the Disney film Artemis Fowl alongside Dame Judi Dench. He has also performed in a BT television commercial, an educational DVD production, and the professional pantomime Snow White with Warwick Davis.
Mr Courage continued his training with a full scholarship at Millennium Performing Arts College, where he completed a diploma in musical theatre.
He is currently entering his third year of a BA (Hons) in musical theatre with the University of Worcester, delivered in partnership with Millennium Performing Arts. Despite the honour of representing Team UK, participants must cover their own costs, including travel, accommodation, competition fees, costumes, and specialist tap shoes.
A single pair of professional tap shoes costs around £250, and during intensive training, Mr Courage can wear through a new pair in as little as six weeks. He is now seeking sponsorship from businesses and the community to help cover these expenses and enable him to compete at the highest level.
Anyone interested in sponsoring him is encouraged to get in touch to support his journey to the world championships.
Share