Mark Rowbottom

Principal and Head Teacher, Mark Rowbottom started his dancing career at age 8 at the 180 Dance Club in his home town, Tyldesley doing Ballroom and Latin and sometimes, Disco.

After taking medals, Mark started to compete at the age of 9 and danced in Juvenile competitions locally. At age 12, moved in to the Junior ranks and started to compete at National level including the Open British Championships held at the prestigious Tower Ballroom, Blackpool and the International Championships at the Royal Albert Hall, London.

At age 16, he progressed to the Youth ranks (under 21s) and danced Ten Dance Competitions (where he and his partner were judged over the 10 dance routines as opposed to just Ballroom or Latin).

Mark was in the amateur ranks from the age of 21 for 3 years. Whilst Mark competed in the amateur ranks he was invited to compete in Spain; Malta; Germany and France.

During this time he also competed in the UK Championships held in Bournemouth and the Open and Closed British Championships at the Winter Gardens Blackpool.

Mark has won a number of Championships over the years including: City of Salford Ten Dance, City of Manchester Ballroom and Latin; Avon Latin Champions; Champions of Tomorrow (Latin) but to name a few…. He also represented Birmingham in the 1991 series of “Come Dancing” making the semi finals.
At age 23, Mark decided to turn Professional and started to teach at the 180 Club both to social dancers and competitors alike.

In 1997, Mark opened Steppin Out Dance Centre and has continued to teach and choreograph in many styles including Ballroom; Latin; Freestyle; Hip Hop; Line Dancing; Salsa; Latino; American Smooth; Sequence and Argentine Tango. He has also trained a number of pupils to professional level.

Mark is also a Championship adjudicator.