I'm no stranger to One Dance UK's platform, U.Dance having being involved with it for two years, with
Plymouth in 2015 and
Salford in 2016. Every summer companies, their young people and professionals from up and down the country gather in a location to celebrate this part of the dance sector.
U.Dance would be holding a range of activities for the young people throughout a weekend, including professional workshops, careers talks and then the opportunity to show their skills in an evening's performance too. It's here we see future dance professionals really strut their stuff and it's an event that has an incredible electric atmosphere like no other. This year they've not let the pandemic stop them in their strides, but in fact the U.Dance National Festival is transferring to an online format, all for FREE!
It will be held from 17-19 July 2020 and is aimed at dancers aged 11-19 years - up to 25 if the participant has a disability. Young people have the opportunity to engage with a vast range of opportunities available. You can take part in the sessions for free, they include;
- Daily Warm Ups from Dame Darcey Bussell, Kerry Fletcher & Natasha Khamjani and Khyle Eccles.
- Daily Masterclasses*
- Career Chats*
- Industry Spotlight Q&A*
- Watch Parties
*pre-registration is required for these sessions.
It's a really exciting event in uncertain times that I would encourage young people to get involved with. U.Dance have also released two digital-type challenges that you can get involved with as well! If you are a young, aspiring dancer then this event is sure to ignite your engines and passion during this time.
"This event will continue in the tradition of previous U.Dance regional events and national festivals, all the while being more inclusive and accessible than ever before, bringing high quality dance workshops and sector knowledge direct to young people all over the country. Whilst we are in a very trying period for the arts, it is important to remember that we will rebuild and grow again, and this celebration of dance will inspire and inform our next generation of dancers, dance makers and dance leaders.”
Andrew Hurst, Chief Executive of One Dance UK
“The U.Dance National Festival is a highlight of the year for many eager young dancers. At this challenging time, it is more important than ever that we recognise the many physical, mental and creative benefits of dance. U.Dance Digital 2020 aims to celebrate the diverse range and quality of dance taking place across the UK and to allow young people to come together to celebrate their passion for dance.”
Laura Nicholson, Head of Children and Young People’s Dance at One Dance UK
You can keep up with the latest news on U.Dance Digital and get registered onto the many fantastic events available to you by visiting their website.
