Rambert Dance Company and Wise Move join forces to launch a new initiative to promote dance to over 50s
Rambert Dance Company and Manchester-based dance group, Wise Move, are joining forces to launch a new initiative to promote dance among people over 50.
Wise Move - a contemporary dance performance group for people over 50 - will receive a dedicated workshop from Rambert at The Lowry, Salford 17 April, 2011. The event is followed by an afternoon session, open to anyone over the age of 50 - regardless of any previous dance experience or level of fitness on Sunday 17 April, 2-4pm at The Lowry (full details below). The workshop will include a contemporary warm-up followed by a session learning movement from current Rambert repertoire.
The internationally-acclaimed Rambert Dance Company is working with Wise Move as part of its national bid to encourage mature people to dance. Rambert hopes that this will be the start of an on-going relationship with Wise Move, and will encourage others in the area to get involved. Rambert brings new work to The Lowry every year, and its triple bill in September 2011 with work may provide stimulus for future workshops.
‘Rambert is delighted to be working with Wise Move Dance and has been impressed by the energy and commitment of those involved, who have made this opportunity possible. Rambert is passionate about working with people of all ages throughout the UK and over the last year has delivered a number of workshops with older people’s groups at the venues to which it tours.
It is great that the workshops with Wise Move can take place at The Lowry. The interest in these workshops demonstrates the need and enthusiasm for this kind of work and our recent experiences from workshops with older peoples groups show that there are many lively, committed and creative people across the country, who can benefit from taking part in high-quality dance activities.’
Joce Giles, Head of Learning and Participation at Rambert Dance Company
Wise Move was founded by Sue Gregson and choreographer and former ballet dancer Bethan Rhys Wiliam in October 2009. It has 13 regular members aged between 51 and 73, from diverse backgrounds including a PA, a radio producer and a former midwife. Many had never danced before, but the group already has two public performances under its belt and the prospect of several more this year.
‘To start to dance, especially when mature, is a totally positive, life-enhancing and, in my own case, a life-changing experience. The most wonderful thing about being a member of the group is that it brings together people who are all willing to try something new at a time of life widely viewed as ‘too late’ to start. We are grateful to Rambert for its generosity in allowing us to learn and grow, through participation in their workshop.’ Sue Gregson, 65, co-founder of Wise Move
Rambert is proud of being in a position to promote contemporary dance nationally, and plans to include these types of workshops to all its touring venues where possible. Venues so far include Sadler’s Wells, Norwich, Nottingham, Truro, Brighton and Shrewsbury.
Open Workshop Booking Information:
Date: Sunday 17 April 2011, 2-4pm
Location: The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, M50 3AZ
Price: £2 (payable on the day)
Places are limited and must be booked in advance. To book your place or for more information contact Rambert Learning & Participation on 020 8630 0615 or email learning@rambert.org.uk
Wise Move are always looking for new members. For more information visit wisemovedance.co.uk
Posted on Monday, 11 April 2011 under News Press General Press Theatre Press Community & Education Press