The families of three young girls who tragically lost their lives during a dance class in Southport last year have found solace in spending time with one another, helping them navigate through their shared grief. Featured in a BBC One documentary set to air on Tuesday, these families have opened up about their experiences of loss and the initiatives they've launched to honor their daughters' memories.
Jenni Stancombe, the mother of seven-year-old Elsie, expressed the comfort they find in each other's company, stating, "We've been together in some of the most difficult conversations, but together, between the six of us, we always seem to pull the light out of the darkness." Elsie, Alice Da Silva Aguiar, aged nine, and Bebe King, six, passed away during a Taylor Swift-themed dance workshop in July 2024.
Over a span of nine months, the BBC captured intimate interviews with the parents, who shared cherished family videos of their daughters for the first time. The documentary follows the families as they establish enduring legacies, including training for and participating in the London Marathon, and the inauguration of a new playground at the school two of the girls attended. Though the families were strangers before the incident, Lauren King, Bebe's mother, describes their connection as "crucial to our survival" and a "blessing," allowing them to discuss their daughters and their shared love of dance.
Alexandra Aguiar, Alice’s mother, remarked on the strengthening bonds, "I feel more close to Alice when I'm with them. I feel more connected to the girls." She fondly recalls a comforting moment shared by Mrs. Stancombe after Alice's passing, highlighting Alice's nurturing spirit.
The documentary features home videos showcasing the girls' joyful personalities. Elsie is seen saying, "You don't need to buy a smile, you just bring up your face," while her father, David Stancombe, notes her determination. Footage of Alice shows her vibrant energy, with her father, Sergio Aguiar, recalling her tendency to dance everywhere. Bebe, captured on camera playing in an oversized hat, is remembered by her parents as a light that brightened any room.
The girls were excited for the dance workshop, their parents reminisce. Mrs. King planned it as a surprise for Bebe, while Mrs. Aguiar noted Alice’s enthusiasm for singing and dancing. Elsie, according to Mrs. Stancombe, went for the love of dance and the simple joy of making bracelets.
The families have drawn strength from one another through their shared ordeal. Meeting for the first time, the Stancombe's describe feeling the other families' pain. "Although we'd have liked not to have met under these circumstances, we are very happy that we have," says Mrs. King. Her sentiments are echoed by Mr. Aguiar, "We try to support each other," with Mrs. Aguiar agreeing, "We are all different but we are very special to each other." These deep connections and the legacy projects they’ve initiated are testaments to their daughters' lasting impact.