Expressions Dance Company (EDC), one of Queensland’s leading contemporary dance companies, has launched a pilot project to establish a Youth Ensemble with 31 dance students aged from 14-18 years.
Facilitated by past EDC ensemble dancer Riannon McLean, the pilot Youth Ensemble is an eight-week-long program that aims to encourage students to develop their contemporary dance skills and techniques, as well as working on self-creation, artistry and choreography.
Hannah Groom, an 18-year-old member of the ensemble from the Sunshine Coast says, “It’s an incredible experience to be part of EDC’s pilot Youth Ensemble, learning from such experienced professional contemporary dancers as Riannon McLean, members of the current EDC ensemble and other industry teachers.”
Expressions Dance Company Youth Ensemble members Christiana Stewart, Avalon Ormiston, Hannah Groom, Sarah Bellenger and Alyssa Park. Photo courtesy of EDC.
Christiana Stewart, 18 years old from Coorparoo, adds, “Taking part in EDC’s pilot Youth Ensemble has been one of the best experiences for me personally. Each week, I feel so diversely challenged and inspired; it’s truly a beautiful dance working environment.”
Artistic Director of EDC, Natalie Weir, says, “EDC’s pilot Youth Ensemble is a fantastic opportunity for EDC to continue to nurture our young dancers, empowering them to learn in a safe and insightful environment through experienced and knowledgeable dance teachers. We aim to encourage each of the dancers to build confidence, excel in their own versatility and embrace the experience of working together as the very first youth ensemble to fall under the EDC umbrella.”
Youth Ensemble member Teagan Potter shares, “EDC’s pilot Youth Ensemble has made me grow as a dancer. I am challenged in each class, as each teacher has something different to teach me and a story to tell through their choreography. Overall, I have spent many hours in the studio with EDC, and this is an amazing experience that I am so glad I didn’t miss.”
The eight-week-long pilot concludes with a performance for family and friends, showcasing the skills and knowledge each participant has developed during their time with EDC.
“When this pilot is complete, we will refine the model and begin to plan for 2019, when we will launch the first fully-fledged EDC Youth Ensemble,” Weir reveals. “EDC has always believed in the importance of playing our part in shaping the next generation of Queensland dance artists and creating a sustainable future for the creators and dancers of tomorrow. Our new Youth Ensemble allows us to continue our support of the young dancers of the future.”
For more information about Expressions Dance Company and its programs, visit expressionsdancecompany.org.au.
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