DanceworX takes participants to lots of new places - 27/02/07

 

A special school holiday initiative has taken a group of local youngsters to all kinds of new places.

 

Promoted by the Vale of Glamorgan Council arts development unit and supported by Vale Disability Sports Wales Development Officer Linda Ruston and the Big Lottery, DanceworX is a top attraction for children aged eight to 17 years.

 

"Transport" was the theme for the February half term project and the choreography reflected travelling to new places.

 

The five-day contemporary dance session at the Memorial Hall Theatre, Barry, attracted 15 girls and boys, some with no previous dance experience and others who had taken part in ballet, gymnastics, street and break dancing, who worked with two leading choreographers, Sophie Squires and Isaac Blake.

 

Vale arts development officer Tracey Harding said: "Participants were invited to add their knowledge and dance styles to the final routine that contains plenty of energy and humour, and to use props such as chairs, newspapers, hand baggage and suitcases.

 

"The week comprised different daily focuses like team bonding, mirroring, special awareness and improvisation. The youngsters were encouraged to reflect on a journey from home to a holiday destination to help create an exciting final routine."

 

The workshop will culminate in a special performance at the annual Vale Schools' Dance evening at the Memorial Hall on Thursday, April 26, and Vale Cabinet Member for Tourism and Leisure Cllr Gwyn John said: “This project is a good example of how mixed abilities have worked together, had plenty of fun, been physically active and made new friends. And all in the name of dance."

 

Tickets for the April 26 dance evening can be booked on (01446) 738622.

 

Further details on a range of initiatives can be obtained from Tracey on (01446) 704714 or Linda Ruston on (01446) 704728.