Dance / Contemporary dance
Where dance can go next
The Northern School of Contemporary Dance is bringing VERVE – its postgraduate company – to the South West this April with a Mixed Bill showcase of new works performed by exceptional young dancers.
In the VERVE 2020 edition, 14 dancers present works by Olivier award-winning dance theatre maker Botis Seva, prolific dancer-turned-acclaimed-choreographer Lali Ayguadé, rising star in Scandinavian contemporary dance Mari Carrasco, and maverick choreographer Douglas Thorpe.
………………………………
is needed now More than ever
Bristol24/7 relies on your support to fund our independent journalism and social impact projects. Become a member and enjoy exclusive perks from just £5 per month.
………………………………
VERVE dancers Mollie Rose Sutcliffe, 21, and Chelsea Gordon, 23, took some time out during a break in rehearsals to say more:
“There are four different pieces – it’s really good to delve into four completely different works. I like each piece for different reasons. Some are more rewarding, some are more challenging, pushing us to find the deeper meaning as we rehearse,” Chelsea said.
“All four pieces have been important for my development,” added Mollie. “I could take home different aspects every night and find a way I could relate to it. Each piece requires such different personas and characteristics.”
“VERVE 2020 shows us where dance can go next,” said Mollie. “What the 14 dancers as individual artists can bring to the dance world in the future, plus the four choreographers and their exploration of new ground. These choreographers are just emerging, presenting their first ever works in the UK. VERVE 2020 will give audiences an insight into what’s to come.
“Botis Seva, for example, makes work about society and uses his frustrations around the current climate in his work. It’s important for him to express that.
Seva’s piece also adds a touch of hip-hop theatre to the company who are customarily contemporary in message and movement quality.
VERVE tours are usually accompanied by a public workshop in each city, but sadly this year’s workshop – based on repertoire from Seva’s work – will not be held in Bristol this year.
“It is good for us to have this community outreach experience to add to whatever we do next… It’s also especially rewarding to get young people involved in dance,” adds Chelsea.
The performance promises to be physically ambitious, and I’m sure it will challenge audiences too. The video alone gives me goosebumps. Go see this if you can.
VERVE: Mixed Bill will be at Bristol Grammar School’s 1532 Performing Arts Centre on April 3, 2020 at 7.30pm. For more information visit www.1532bristol.co.uk/whats-on-and-news/events/verve-mixed-bill
This performance has been cancelled owing to the coronavirus epidemic.
Main photo: Nicole Guarino
Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
