Locomotion Calls on the Public to Dance for Guinness World Records Glory

Locomotion and S&DR200 have announced plans to stage an official attempt at their first ever Guinness World Records title, inviting the public to take part in a large-scale dance event at Locomotion on Thursday 26 February. The challenge will see participants attempt to set a new record for the greatest number of people simultaneously performing the “Locomotion” dance at a single venue.

Under official Guinness World Records rules, at least 1,752 people must dance together continuously for a minimum of five minutes for the record to be recognised. Organisers are therefore appealing for as many people as possible to attend and help reach the required number.

To support those taking part, video guides explaining the choreography will be published on Locomotion’s website and social media channels. No prior dance experience is needed, although participants are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the routine in advance to ensure the record attempt runs smoothly on the day.

The record attempt has the backing of record producer and President of the Railway Benefit Fund, Pete Waterman OBE, and will be danced to Kylie Minogue’s version of “the Locomotion”. Waterman worked with Minogue on the 1998 re-release of the track, which reached number two in the UK singles chart and remains one of her most successful releases.

Pete Waterman OBE a dedicated advocate for the rail community, shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming record-breaking attempt:

"I am delighted to support this event and the brilliant teams at Locomotion and S&DR200. As a charity, we are committed to supporting the UK rail industry and the incredible people who keep it moving.

The railway has evolved in the best possible way, transforming from its historic roots into a modern, high-tech marvel, but it is the dedicated railway people from the engineers to the apprentices, who remain its greatest asset. I am particularly excited by the opportunity this event brings to invite more young people to learn more about and be inspired by the rich history and exciting future of British rail.”

Participants are being asked to arrive at the museum before 12.30 on Thursday 26 February to allow time for registration, a warm-up and a short rehearsal ahead of the official Guinness World Records attempt. The dance itself will be led by Darlington-based professional dancer and choreographer Darrien Wright, who won BBC1’s Strictly Dance Fever in 2006 and later danced with Kylie Minogue on Michael McIntyre’s Big Show in 2018. A number of local dance groups, including Harlequin Stages School, Age UK and HC Vocal And Performance Academy, will also be involved.

The record attempt forms part of Locomotion’s Railway Record Breakers half-term programme, which includes a poster trail highlighting record-setting vehicles in the museum’s collection, alongside self-led STEM-themed activities designed to challenge visitors. It also sits within wider S&DR200 Festival celebrations marking the bicentenary of the Stockton & Darlington Railway and Locomotion No.1, the first steam locomotive to haul passengers on a public railway. The historic locomotive will be illuminated in Locomotion’s Main Hall as the backdrop to the attempt.

Sarah Price, Head of Locomotion, said:

“The thought that Locomotion might soon have its own official Guinness World Records title is amazing! We really hope as many people as possible – young, old, dancers and non-dancers, rail enthusiasts and complete newbies – join us to help us achieve this incredible goal. This will be a once in a lifetime opportunity for the community to come together in a historic setting to achieve something unforgettable.”

Those interested in taking part are advised to check Locomotion’s website for further details ahead of the event.

Image: Locomotion