Senior diplomats and interfaith representatives gathered in London for an afternoon of culture and friendship, featuring a performance by Brigham Young University’s internationally acclaimed Ballroom Dance Company.
The event, held at the Mermaid Theatre on 30 May 2026, was organised by the Church’s International Affairs Office in London and co-hosted by the Dean of the United Kingdom Diplomatic Corps, His Excellency Iván Romero-Martínez, Ambassador of Honduras, together with his wife, Mrs Mirian Nasser de Romero.
Addressing attendees at a pre-performance reception, H.E. Iván Romero-Martínez expressed appreciation for the Church’s role in building international relationships. “On behalf of the Diplomatic Corps, a big thank you to the Church for continuing to be a friend to all nations,” he said.
More than 500 guests attended, representing 10 countries across the diplomatic, political, faith and charitable sectors. Among those present were Ambassador Rafael Ortiz Fábrega of Costa Rica, Lord and Lady Brennan, Sam Rushworth MP, and Alderman Professor Emma Edhem of the City of London.
The programme was headlined by the BYU Ballroom Dance Company, who arrived in London following a successful showing at the 2026 Blackpool Dance Festival, where they won both the Open British Ballroom and Latin Formation Championships. Their performance in London included a diverse programme of ballroom and Latin dance, showcasing music and styles from around the world.
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“I was thrilled to attend this outstanding event and was clapping all the time, especially during the Latin numbers which I loved,” said H.E. Ivan Romero-Martinez. “The whole programme reflected the dancers’ expertise and professionalism.”
BYU Ballroom Dance Company has a long and historic connection to Blackpool. In 1971, the company became the first American formation team to win the prestigious British Championship title. Since then, BYU has continued to build a global reputation for precision, artistry, and showmanship, regularly defending national titles in the United States while competing on the world stage.
The evening formed part of the Church’s broader efforts to strengthen relationships with diplomatic and interfaith partners through cultural engagement. Events of this kind provide opportunities for dialogue, collaboration and mutual understanding among leaders from different nations and traditions.
Following the BYU Ballroom Dance Company’s London performance, the group headed to India at the invitation of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, presenting performances in New Delhi and Bengaluru, alongside cultural exchange and service activities.
