Few dancers have achieved the level of success and influence enjoyed by Hazel Newberry MBE. Renowned for her remarkable competitive career, Hazel became one of the most decorated Ballroom dancers of her generation, winning world titles, major international championships, and helping to shape the future of the industry through teaching and coaching.

As both a champion competitor and respected dance educator, Hazel's contribution to Ballroom dancing continues to inspire dancers around the world.

 

From Rising Talent to World Champion

Hazel's journey to the top of the Ballroom world was built on years of dedication, discipline, and extraordinary talent. Alongside Christopher Hawkins, she developed one of the most successful partnerships in modern Ballroom history.

The pair began dancing together in 1992 as Youth competitors for England and quickly established themselves as a formidable force on the competitive circuit.

Their amateur career reached extraordinary heights in 1997 when they captured both the World Amateur Ballroom Championship and the European Amateur Ballroom Championship. That same year, the couple achieved an incredible run of thirteen consecutive championship victories across Europe and the United States, including success at the prestigious World Games.

These accomplishments marked Hazel and Christopher as one of Ballroom dancing's leading couples and laid the foundations for even greater success as professionals.

 

Dominating the Professional Ballroom Scene

After turning professional, Hazel and Christopher continued their rise to the very top of the sport.

Between 2002 and 2004, the partnership became three-time undefeated World Professional Ballroom Champions, a remarkable achievement that secured their place among Ballroom dancing's all-time greats.

Their success extended across virtually every major championship in the world, including victories at:

World Professional Ballroom Championships
International Professional Ballroom Championships
Open British Championships
European Championships
UK Championships
US Open Championships
Asian Open Championships

The partnership's consistency, elegance, and technical excellence made them one of the most admired couples of their era.

 

A New Chapter with Jonathan Wilkins

Following the conclusion of her partnership with Christopher Hawkins, Hazel embarked on a new competitive chapter alongside Jonathan Wilkins.

The couple quickly established themselves among the world's elite dancers. In 2008, they achieved second place at the prestigious Embassy Ball World Cup Standard Competition, competing against some of the strongest partnerships in the sport.

In 2009, Hazel and Jonathan captured the WDC European Professional Standard Championship at the Kremlin in Moscow, adding yet another major title to Hazel's already exceptional career.

Shortly afterwards, the pair announced their retirement from competitive dancing, bringing to a close a remarkable era of championship success.

 

 

Recognition Beyond the Dance Floor

Hazel's contribution to Ballroom dancing was formally recognised in 2007 when she was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for services to Ballroom dancing.

The honour reflected not only her accomplishments as a competitor but also her role in promoting and elevating Ballroom dance both in the United Kingdom and internationally.

 

Hazel on Strictly Come Dancing

Like many of Ballroom's most respected professionals, Hazel also brought her expertise to television audiences.

She appeared in the second series of Strictly Come Dancing, partnering television presenter Quentin Willson.

While their competitive journey on the programme was brief, Hazel's appearance introduced her to a wider audience and showcased the technical skill and professionalism that had made her a world champion.

 

 

The Evolution of a Ballroom Style Icon with Chrisanne Couture

Alongside her championship achievements, Hazel became known for her distinctive Ballroom fashion and memorable Chrisanne designs.

Throughout her competitive career, her style evolved beautifully alongside her dancing.

Early Competitive Years

In her earlier career, Hazel embraced dramatic, glamorous Ballroom fashion featuring:

Full feathered skirts
Luxurious boa hems
Bold colour palettes
Rich textures and movement
Eye-catching shades such as tropical lime

These gowns perfectly matched the energy and excitement of her performances, creating a striking presence on the dance floor.

 

Refined Championship Elegance

As her career progressed, Hazel developed a more sophisticated and streamlined look.

Her later gowns became known for:

Figure-hugging silhouettes
Elegant ruching and draping
Full-length sleeves and gloves
Soft shading effects
Cleaner, sleeker skirt designs

Her preferred colour palette shifted towards softer and more refined shades including:

Lilac
Spearmint
Ice Blue
Pastel tones

These designs highlighted her exceptional lines and movement while creating the timeless elegance for which she became famous.

 

A Lasting Influence

Hazel Newberry's career represents one of the finest success stories in modern Ballroom dancing.

From World and European Amateur Champion to undefeated Professional World Champion, she achieved excellence at every level of the sport. Her partnerships with Christopher Hawkins and Jonathan Wilkins produced some of Ballroom's most memorable performances, while her influence as a teacher continues to shape future generations of dancers.

Combined with her impeccable style and iconic Chrisanne gowns, Hazel remains a celebrated figure within Ballroom history, admired not only for the titles she won but for the grace, artistry, and professionalism she brought to every performance.