A missing Art Deco statuette from Blackpool Dance Festival has sparked a public appeal as organisers invite locals to step inside the famous event for a rare free celebration.
Could a long-lost piece of Blackpool Winter Gardens history be sitting in your loft?
As organisers of the Blackpool Dance Festival launch an appeal to trace a missing Art Deco trophy from the event’s early years, they are also opening the doors to the public, offering a rare chance for local people to experience the world-famous event for free.
The bronze and ivory figurine was created by celebrated sculptor Demetre H. Chiparus and is known as the ‘Expensive Girl’. Depicting a poised female dancer, it is one of 12 historic trophies that were cleared out from the Winter Gardens prior to its sale to Leisure Parcs in the venue’s earlier years.
According to a newspaper cutting from the time, the figurine went under the hammer at an auction in Cleveleys during the 1990s, where it sold for £25,200 – far exceeding expectations after “local and international collectors competed” for it. The buyer was described only as “a mystery London bidder” and the statue’s whereabouts have remained unknown ever since.
Festival organisers now believe the piece could be anywhere – tucked away in storage, passed down through generations, or sitting within a private collection – its connection to Blackpool perhaps long forgotten.
“As we approach our centenary celebrations in 2026, we’re reflecting on the incredible history of the festival,” said organiser Natalie Hayes. “This beautiful Chiparus figurine is part of that story. We’re not looking to reclaim it – we’d simply love to connect with whoever owns it.”
The team would welcome a conversation about potentially loaning the piece for the centenary year, allowing locals and visitors from around the world to see it on display back where its story began.
“It would mean a great deal to bring it home, even temporarily,” she added. “It represents not just artistic craftsmanship, but the legacy of the dancers and competitions that made Blackpool famous worldwide.”
Held annually since 1920, the festival remains one of the most prestigious ballroom events on the global stage, drawing competitors and audiences from across the world to the celebrated Winter Gardens. Its centenary is being marked in 2026, reflecting interruptions over the decades and celebrating the 100th edition of the competition.
That milestone is also being shared with the local community. In a rare opportunity, residents are being invited to experience the festival for themselves on 15 May, with 2,000 free tickets available through a public ballot which is now open.
Audiences will be treated to a special showcase from Strictly Come Dancing stars Amy Dowden and Carlos Gu, alongside performances from youth, amateur and professional dancers, highlighting the skill and artistry of ballroom and Latin dance.
Attendees will also have the chance to take part in an interactive Cha Cha Cha masterclass, offering a hands-on introduction to the world of competitive dance within the historic surroundings of the Empress Ballroom.
To apply, visit wintergardensblackpool.co.uk, with entries closing at midnight on Sunday 3 May. School and community groups are also invited to apply via email.
Anyone who owns the figurine, recognises it, or has information about its whereabouts is encouraged to contact the festival team at dancefestival@wintergardensblackpool.co.uk. All enquiries will be handled with discretion.
