Rio 2016 might still be a few weeks away but youngsters got into the Olympic spirit a bit earlier with some Brazilian inspired dance moves.

Barking and Dagenham Post: Over 500 pupils from 20 schools are performing a mass choreography entitled Dance Rio at the Jim Peters Arena.Over 500 pupils from 20 schools are performing a mass choreography entitled Dance Rio at the Jim Peters Arena. (Image: Archant)

More than 500 pupils from 20 schools performed in Dance Rio, a mass dance performance at the Jim Peter’s Stadium in Dagenham on Thursday.

The moves were choreographed by award-winning dance artist Jennifer Irons, who is well-known internationally for her work across theatre, film and TV.

It follows the success of the borough’s inaugural mass dance last year, which involved 13 schools performing the Haka.

Cllr Maureen Worby, cabinet member for social care and health integration, said: “Dance Rio has kept the passion and excitement of the Olympic and Paralympic games alive by engaging more local youngsters in healthy activities that harness and develop their abilities.”

The event was funded by Public Heath and organised by the Dance Network Association’s project director, Gemma Wright.

Youth Dance Platforms take place annually to allow groups to perform.