**Welsh Dance Crew’s Infectious Energy Wows Judges on Britain’s Got Talent Semi-Final**
The live semi-finals of Britain’s Got Talent were brimming with excitement on Saturday night, thanks to a heartwarming performance from Lil M’s, an exuberant group of young dancers hailing from Port Talbot, south Wales. Dressed in gleeful Minions-inspired outfits, complete with yellow and blue flourishes, the troupe captivated both viewers at home and the show’s judges, earning glowing feedback for their creativity and spirit.
Lil M’s, representing TDM Dance School in Port Talbot, set the tone for the evening’s competition with a medley performance blending popular hits such as Galantis’ “Peanut Butter Jelly”, the iconic YMCA anthem, and, in a surprising twist, the Star Wars theme tune. In a repeat of their cheeky audition antics, the group wasted no time in poking good-natured fun at head judge Simon Cowell, adorning him with streams of yellow and blue ribbon, much to the audience’s delight.
Alesha Dixon was quick to sing the group’s praises, applauding their sheer energy and infectious enthusiasm. “Oh my word, what a start to the night!” she exclaimed, recognising the challenge and pressure of opening the show. She added, “You have truly captured the spirit of this competition. The choreography was exceptional, and I love that you’ve had some fun with Simon as well. Absolutely wonderful.”
Amanda Holden echoed these sentiments, commending Lil M’s for upping the ante from their audition with sharper moves and clever song choices. “Your energy, the choreography, the music – it was all just brilliant,” she remarked. Holden also revealed that she and Cowell felt that this semi-final routine surpassed even their well-received audition, citing this as a perfect showcase for what the evening was about.
Bruno Tonioli, never one to hold back his excitement, nearly bounced out of his seat after their set. “The force is with you!” he beamed, referencing the Star Wars motif woven into their act. “I didn’t think it was possible to have so much fun on one stage, but you just did it. Absolutely incredible work.” He even playfully teased Cowell for his newfound “fashion sense” after being roped into the Minion theme, declaring it Cowell’s “best outfit in a long time”.
Simon Cowell himself displayed his trademark wit and willingness to be the butt of the joke. “At least you didn’t make me look completely ridiculous tonight,” he chuckled. He went on to compliment the act’s improvements, saying, “This was better than your first audition. The music was spot on, and you can see how much hard work went into this. You truly have a chance of winning – you never know on this show. I believe the public is going to fall in love with you.”
In a heartwarming moment, Cowell asked the group how they would spend the £250,000 prize money if they clinched the series crown. Their answer was as delightfully on-brand as their performance: “Bananas!” The studio erupted in laughter, cementing the group’s status not only as talented dancers but charming entertainers too.
Presenter Declan Donnelly was quick to keep the lively atmosphere rolling, urging the group to continue their lighthearted pranking of Cowell and dubbing their set “what a start!” All eyes were drawn to the details on the contestants’ denim waistcoats, smartly embroidered with bananas—a subtle touch that did not go unnoticed.
TDM Dance School, the home of Lil M’s, is no stranger to the Britain’s Got Talent stage. Previous alumni, including Groove Thing, Pre Skool, and Nu Sxool, have wowed audiences in years past. Notably, Lil M’s choreographer is a former dancer from 2012’s Nu Sxool, ensuring the legacy of Welsh dance excellence endures on the national stage.
Lil M’s members range in age from five to eighteen, demonstrating an impressive ability to unify energy and discipline across this broad spectrum. As the week’s semi-finalists vie for a coveted spot in the live final, the group from Port Talbot has made a strong case for themselves—both in terms of talent and irresistible personality.
Britain’s Got Talent continues to draw immense interest across the country, and Lil M’s have shown that sometimes the most memorable acts are those that combine skill, fun, and a touch of irreverence. Their journey on the show is a testament to the vibrancy of Welsh youth culture, and to the enduring power of dance to bring people together, regardless of age or background.