Future Now 2022 Programme

BA Graduation 2022

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And again, but louder this time

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the day

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Swerve

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Student Works

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BA Class of 2022

Welcome Future Now marks the culmination of our BA students’ three-year preparation for entering the profession as contemporary dance artists.

Students have been lucky to work with three incredible artists in the studio during their final term, each with a distinctive style and approach - Eleanor Sikorski, Mathieu Geffré and Phil Sanger.

As graduates of 2022 our students join a long history of being at the forefront of innovative dance practice, having been inspired and trained at one of the world’s leading dance conservatoires. I’d like to thank our team of dance specialists who have dedicated their time and efforts to getting them this far, our staff who have supported them during their training and those who have helped make tonight possible.

Our students tell us that our environment is a positive and supportive one. The tools they have gathered and developed to navigate a sustainable career sit within each one of them and their practice.

As always, the staff and I remain proud and passionate supporters of our graduates. I look forward to seeing their creativity flourish as they step out into the world, a world ready to be reimagined.

Sharon Watson mbe, dl CEO and Principal

And again, but louder this time

by Eleanor Sikorski

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Doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.

And again, but louder this time, is a structured improvisation. Each night the dancers perform a different interpretation of the choreographic score. Sikorski has asked the dancers to practice performing together, to bridge the gap in feeling between what is familiar and what is unknown. Can we dance together without knowing what comes next? What if we think of choreography as a simple refrain that can be sung in many different ways, in many different keys by many different voices, at our leisure over and over again, until something new happens?

Cast: Jorden Brooks, Lucas Chery, Jacob Edwards, Mali Findlay, Eleni Green, Sylvie Holder, Abigail Mann, Solveig Helene Wiik Pedersen, Martha Pigg, Chasmine Tangen, Ben Whyman & Elicia Yeardley Rehearsal director: Azzura Ardovini

Costumes: Abigail Creasey

Music: Which side are you on?

by Florence Reece

Lighting: Mark Baker

Original score: Lewys Holt 5

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Eleanor Sikorski Eleanor Sikorski is a dancer, choreographer and filmmaker based in Leeds. She grew up in London and studied dance at London Contemporary Dance School. She has been making and touring her choreography on and off since 2011. Since 2015 she has been part of the dancer-led project Nora with fellow dancers Stephanie McMann and Flora Wellesley Wesley: together they invite choreographers to make work for them to perform, most recently making a film in collaboration with Eleanor Bauer and live work with Deborah Hay. Over the years Eleanor has worked as a dancer for artists including Eva Recacha, Else Tunemyr, Seke Chimutengwende, Igor & Moreno, Gillie Kleiman, Joan Jonas, Alexandre Achour and William Hunt.

As a filmmaker she has worked with artists including Es Morgan, Sue MacLaine, Seke Chimutengwende and Jonathan Burrows & Matteo Fargion.

With her partner, dance artist Lewys Holt, she co-hosts Roadhouse, a quarterly night for improvised dance performance in Leeds. She also works as a choreographic assistant and mentor, and makes comics.

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And again, but louder this time by Eleanor Sikorski

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the day

by Mathieu Geffré 10

Memories and Dance are both fleeting. At the dawn of their next step towards the future, the day proposes a moment to sit and contemplate the past. In this choreographic journey orchestrated by Mathieu Geffré, 16 dancers revisit significant moments of their last three years to encapsulate those through dance. Sometimes individual, sometimes shared, sometimes joyful, sometimes devastating, each memory articulates itself with another in order to create a unique landscape of souvenirs.

Cast: George Burton, Elise Clason, Manon Guilloteau, Cato Kendall-Muniesa, Pietro Mazzotta, Regine Phua, Ella Roberts, Emma Savoldelli-Harris, Elysia Stephani, AJ Stephenson, Aiden Taylor, Elisavet Tsiouti, Allegra Vistalli, Jack Warren & Jules Young Rehearsal directors: Matthew Slater & Amelia Long Baldwin

Costumes: Abigail Creasey

Music: Overture in D Major by Georg Philipp Telemann, Otto Sauter & Nicol Matt Movement 1, Movement 2 & Movement 3 by Ryoji Ikeda, Mika Vainio & Alva Noto Improvisació 1 by Bobby McFerrin

Lighting: Mark Baker

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Mathieu Geffré After graduating from the Paris Conservatoire in 2006, Mathieu Geffré has danced across Europe as a member of companies such as Dansgroep Amsterdam, Noord Nederlandse Dans and National Dance Company Wales.

He's collaborated with numerous leading choreographers including Itzik Galili, Johan Inger, Mark Baldwin, Christopher Bruce and Angelin Preljocaj among others.

Alongside his performing career Mathieu has created and presented work on many European stages and was awarded the 3rd Prize Choreography at the Copenhagen International Choreography Competition in 2016.

Mathieu launched his company, Rendez-Vous dance in February 2021, with which he creates inclusive projects to tell past and current LGBTQIA+ stories. He is the first recipient of the Made In The North East commission award enabling him to create The Monocle. Mathieu has also made work for Nationaltheatre Mannheim, Rambert School, CobosMika Seeds Company and Boston Dance Theatre. He is a celebrated dance facilitator who is regularly invited as a guest teacher for Company Wayne McGregor, Matthew Bourne New Adventures, Ballet de l’Opera du Grand Avignon and Venice Biennale among others.

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the day by Mathieu Geffré

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Swerve

by Phil Sanger

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An abrupt change of direction.

The creative process for this work was a series of swerves which brought meaning and connection to the overwhelming exchange of ideas and possibilities that we shared. We didn’t choose one direction, we chose all of them and Swerve is a testament to the dedication and determination of the 16 wonderful performers who have trusted, dared, and challenged me throughout the project.

They are the true creators of this work.

Cast: Holly Amos, Haizea Andueza, Natassa Argyropoulou, Finlay Copland, Dylan Davies, Ada Freund, Kate Howden, James Mounsey, Zara Phillips, Luke Speddings, Johanna Spies, Libby Stant, Euan Stephen, Olivia Talbot, Molly Williams & Angela Zenare Rehearsal director: Hannah Bateman

Costumes: Abigail Creasey

Music: Gully Side by Yussef Dayes This is not an ending by Last Days Lesson 6: The Lecture by Jurassic 5 Iguazu by Gustavo Santaolalla Old McDonald by Ella Fitzgerald

Lighting: Chris Yates

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Phil Sanger Phil Sanger is an established arts practitioner born and based in Yorkshire. After graduating from NSCD in 2007, Phil went on to tour internationally companies such as Phoenix Dance Theatre, Shobana Jeyasingh Dance Company, Vincent Dance Theatre, Yorke Dance Project, and Denada Dance Theatre. During this time he performed a score of new and original creations by international dance makers such as Ivgi & Greben, Sharon Watson, Richard Alston, Darshan Singh Buller, Aletta Collins & Douglas Thorpe. His most memorable moments were the restagings of historical and seminal works by pioneering artists Sir Robert Cohan, Sir Kenneth MacMillan and Robert North.

Phil also joined the faculty at NSCD in 2016 and is still in-post as Lecturer in performance. Outside of this role he continues his arts practice as both a maker and performer of interdisciplinary work, and is the director of Ramped; an inclusive dance company producing performance by, and for, marginalised communities.

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Swerve by Phil Sanger

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Student works INTERLUDE Not all risks pay off but it’s important to remember that some do.

Reframing risk as an opportunity to succeed rather than a path to failure.

Choreographers and performers: Natassa Argyropoulou and George Burton

Lighting: Mark Baker

Music: Pájarocámara and Agua y Puerta by Lechuga Zafiro

Deferred Two best friends begin piecing together a duet and as the hands on the clock race towards assessment day, tensions between them rise.

Choreographers and performers: James Mounsey and AJ Stephenson

Lighting: Mark Baker

Original soundtrack: Vocals by James Mounsey and AJ Stephenson, mixed by Fin Vallance

Loop it?

Yeah that works. Maybe we could, put that section there and that one on that part... yeah. Ohhh wait no, do you think it fits. Errrr I don’t know.

Actually just go from the beginning.

Choreographers and performers: Jorden Brooks and Zara Phillips Original score: Jorden Brooks and Zara Phillips

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Lighting: Mark Baker

The shadow of Daedalus In flight and in fall of Daedalus’ invention, an exploration of Icarus and Daedalus’ journeys.

Choreographers and performers: Finlay Copland and Dylan Davies

Lighting: Mark Baker

CROW A duet of a body and a voice in space that describes the relationship between a poem's character and its poet.

Choreographer and performer: Johanna Spies

Lighting: Mark Baker

Music: CROW written and read by Ted Hughes HAHA by Charlotte Adigéry & Bolis Pupul

Fancy a cuppa?

Do you know that those in government have to follow the seven principles of public life? No? Neither do they!

Choreographers and performers: Martha Pigg and Luke Speddings

Lighting: Mark Baker

Music: Halycon Days by Ed Hughes Warning: Contains swearing gestures, themes of a sexual nature

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Lapse of Being An exploration into the formation and destruction of identity as a concept, posing questions around the need for such ideas. Why can't we allow everything to happen and exist without a need to comprehend?

Reducing our fleeting moments into something we can understand.

Choreographer: Ben Whyman Cast: Haizea Andueza, Elise Clason, Zara Phillips, Ella Roberts & Chasmine Fay Tangen Music: Andy Scott, Eartheater and Caterina Barbieri mixed by Ben Whyman Movement research: Alanah Corbridge and Amelia Long Baldwin

Lighting: Mark Baker

State of Trance (Film) A remake of Elicia Yeardley’s live work State of Trance, brought to the screen. The work came from a multidisciplinary collaborative process to make an experimental work closely fusing dance, music, projection, film, and lighting. Enter the State of Trance.

Co-director and choreographer: Elicia Yeardley

Lighting: Libby Stant

Co-director and cinematographer: Dylan Davies

Music: Guest Singer

Cast: Natassa Argyropoulou, Alanah Corbridge, Chasmine Tangen & Molly Williams

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HOLLY AMOS

BA Class of 2022 Holly, born in 2000, started her dance training in tap, ballet and musical theatre in Hertfordshire, before discovering her love for contemporary at Hot House Dance. In 2016 she joined the CAT scheme at The Place. Highlights of her time at NSCD include working with choreographers Joseph Mercier, Imogen Reeve, Phil Sanger and Thick&Tight. She also cherishes her time touring the ‘Posh Clubs’ with Glitterbomb Dancers. Beyond graduation, Holly will be freelancing and is excited to evolve her practice through performance, teaching and research. She looks forward to visiting her beautiful friends around the world and seeing them shine in what they do. @hollyamos_

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HAIZEA ANDUEZA

Haizea was born in 2000 in San Sebastián, Spain, where she began dancing ballet at a young age. Her interest in contemporary dance started later in life, leading her enrol at El Magatzem Escola de Dansa in Barcelona, aged 18. She moved to the UK to join NSCD in 2019, and has worked with choreographers including Phil Sanger and Akeim Toussaint Buck. Haizea's highlights are definitely the cinnamon rolls from the canteen and sunbathing in the courtyard (when the UK weather allowed it), and being part of Glitterbomb Dancers, a dance troupe created by Joseph Mercier.

After graduation, Haizea joins Holstebro Dance Company in Denmark as an apprentice through the MA programme at NSCD, and will FaceTime Zara every weekend to make sure she hasn't found a new best friend.

NATASSA ARGYROPOULOU

Natassa was born in 1999 and began her training in contemporary, ballet and commercial dance at her home town, Athens, Greece. During her third year at NSCD she joined Rendezvous Dance Company as an apprentice for the creation and touring of ‘The Monocle’. She loves the freedom moving offers her and finds dancing to be delicious. What she will cherish the most from her time at NSCD is having had the opportunity to learn from all the beautiful movers in her year and making connections with them through movement.

After graduating, she will join Akeim Toussaint Buck for his project Beatmotion Mass in September and will travel to India to become a qualified yoga teacher. She hopes to keep moving, smiling and being curious about dance and life. @dancingsushiii

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JORDEN BROOKS

GEORGE BURTON

Jorden was born in 2000 in Beverley, Yorkshire. Jorden ventured into contemporary dance aged 12, joining East Riding Youth Dance and later East Riding County Company, aged 16. Aged 18, Jorden joined the NSCD CAT scheme and National Youth Dance Company, under Sharon Eyal. She then progressed to the Access to HE course at NSCD, leading her to gain a place on the BA.

George was born in the year 1999 and grew up in Reading. He started dancing at the age of 16 with FuzzyLogic Youth Company under the instruction of Zoie Goulding to whom he owes so much.

During his time at NSCD he has had the opportunity to work under the guidance of choreographers such as Douglas Thorpe, Akram Khan and Mathieu Geffré amongst others. He looks forward to seeing the development and progression of his peers in whatever path they choose to pursue after graduation.

During Jorden’s time at NSCD, she has been grateful to meet her amazing peers who have inspired and guided her through her dance journey so far.

Jorden will continue her studies at NSCD in September as part of VERVE 23.

She also wishes to develop her own practice, collaborating with musicians and DJs in the near future as well as organising fun and accessible dance events. @jordenbrookss 28

George will continue his studies at NSCD in September as part of VERVE, the school’s postgraduate touring company.

LUCAS CHERY

ELISE CLASON

Born in 1998 in the city of Metz in France, Lucas started training aged 16 in contemporary and ballet at a regional conservatoire. After finishing high school he continued his training whilst completing a French degree studying the English language. He started his BA at NSCD aged 21 after graduating in France. During his studies at NSCD Lucas has performed works by TRIBE//, Joseph Mercier & Imogen Reeve and Eleanor Sikorski. After graduation he will join Watson Dance Project earning an MA in Contemporary Dance Performance from NSCD, and also work on expanding his yoga and hand balancing teaching practice. Lucas wants to grow as a performer and dance maker but also as a mover sharing how life-changing and wonderful movement can be.

Elise was born in 1999 in Norway. She started dancing at an early age, studying at St.Hallvard Videregående Skole for 3 years, following a foundation year at Trøndertun Folkehøgskole before moving to Leeds.

During Elise’s time at NSCD she has enjoyed working with the teachers, her class, and choreographers Amaury Lebrun, Kassichana Okene-Jameson and Mathieu Geffré-Gardiner. She also started to take classes in ballroom/Latin on the side.

After graduation Elise is excited to dive into a freelance career and keep performing and creating.

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FINLAY COPLAND

ALANAH CORBRIDGE

Finlay was born in Stirling, Scotland, in 1996. As a young person Finlay trained in contemporary, ballet and musical theatre.

In 2018 they were part of the motion*s Dance Program in Berlin, experiencing many different styles including voguing, belly dance, Afro house, funk and hip hop.

While training at NSCD Finlay had the privilege of working with brilliant artists such as Thick&Tight, Joseph Mercier, Imogen Reeve, Phil Sanger, and Amaury Lebrun. A highlight of their time at NSCD has been the opportunity to collaborate and grow artistically with such a diverse group of artists. Finlay is also part of the Glitterbomb Dancers cabaret dance troupe where they have had the opportunity to bring the joy of dance across England.

After Graduation Finlay is looking forward to a good night's sleep.

Alanah is 20 years old and grew up in Milton Keynes where she began dancing at the age of 11 with Coles Forsyth Dance Academy. Alanah furthered her training with Tring Park Associates where she developed her passion for contemporary dance. In 2018 Alanah became part of the young cast in Matthew Bourne’s world premiere of Romeo and Juliet. She then studied on the Access to HE course at NSCD, before enrolling on the BA programme. During her time at NSCD, Alanah’s highlight was a research and development process with Akram Khan and Mavin Khoo.

Upon graduating, Alanah is excited to be joining Shobana Jeyasingh Dance as an apprentice dancer through the NSCD Masters programme.

DYLAN DAVIES

JACOB EDWARDS

Born in 2001, Dylan was raised in Shropshire, beginning his dancing journey with Boysdancing West Midlands in 2010. Before NSCD Dylan trained at 2FacedDance Youth and DanceXchange on their CAT programme. Alongside his training at NSCD Dylan has begun training in breaking and ballroom/Latin.

One of Dylan’s highlights at NSCD has been hosting open improvisation jams, connecting dancers to live musicians through play and experimentation.

After graduation, Dylan will be joining Motionhouse as part of NSCD’s MA Professional Placement Scheme.

Jacob Edwards studied at Manchester College before gaining a place on the Access to HE course at NSCD in 2018, progressing to the BA programme in 2019. During his time at NSCD Jacob has developed his existing love for creative exploration in dance and music. Highlights include working with Akeim Toussaint Buck, Douglas Thorpe, Sharon Watson and Eleanor Sikorski. He has also enjoyed working on many collaborative projects with his peers and is grateful for the friendships that have blossomed in the process. After graduation Jacob will be embarking on a freelance career staring with a contract with Whispered Tales under the direction of Donald Edwards. He hopes to spread positive vibrations wherever his career leads him.

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MALI FINDLAY

ADA FREUND

Mali was born in 1999 in South London, and began dancing at local community classes from age 3-11. She studied dance at high school and sixth form which brought her to NSCD to further her studies.

A highlight of her time at Northern has been acting as society lead for the People of Global Majority Society. Mali is excited to continue widening her understanding of inclusive practices through research whilst furthering her professional dance career.

Born in Finland, Ada found her passion for dance by dancing in her living room to ABBA’s music. Before coming to Northern she trained at various schools in Finland as well as with international artists including Jos Baker, Vivianne Budsko-Lommi and Edivaldo Ernesto. Ada’s biggest highlight at Northern was working with Thick&Tight. She will always be grateful for the connections she has made with her incredibly talented and supportive colleagues at NSCD. Ada is excited to join Göteborgs Danskompani next year as an apprentice.

She also hopes to find time to enjoy film and cinematography. Alongside performing Ada is curious to keep developing her practice as a maker and choreographer.

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ELENI GREEN

MANON GUILLOTEAU

Eleni was born in 2000 in Cambridge and started contemporary dance at the age of 14 in her school’s youth dance club.

Before training at NSCD, Eleni was part of the Cambridge Youth Dance Company and the DanceEast CAT scheme. During her time at NSCD, she has been surprised, challenged and delighted daily by the ideas of artists including Joseph Mercier, Eleanor Sikorski and Thick&Tight as well as every member of her lovely year group.

After graduation, Eleni plans to pursue the dream of a holistic education by trying as many new things as possible.

Manon was born in 2000 in Niort, France, where she started dancing at the age of 5. After her training at the Conservatoire Régional de Danse in Nantes, she joined the CertHE course at NSCD, followed by the BA course. During her time at Northern, Manon’s highlight has been finding new interests in both choreographing and performing which have helped her to develop new skills for the future. After graduation, she wishes to create her own dance company in France and keep on developing her own movement language.

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SYLVIE HOLDER

KATE HOWDEN

Sylvie was born in South East London in 2000. At 13, she began her contemporary dance training taking youth classes at Trinity Laban, before going on to train at the Brit School (dance strand) for 4 years, in addition to the CAT scheme at The Place. During her time at NSCD, Sylvie has worked with artists including Amaury Lebrun, Thick & Tight, and Eleanor Sikorski. An NSCD highlight of Sylvie’s was the creation of her 3rd year research project FEAST, which showcased her political interests and artistic style. After graduation, Sylvie is excited to spend the next year as part of Watson Dance Project, working closely with Sharon Watson and Gianluca Vincentini to create and perform dance works as part of Leeds 2023.

Kate was born in 2000 and began training at a local dance school in Leeds at the age of 3. At 16 she joined the NSCD CAT scheme where she was introduced to contemporary dance. This led to her joining the foundation then degree course at NSCD. Throughout her time at the school Kate has enjoyed all opportunities to create, explore and work with her beautiful peers. Back to The Fuchsia II was one of her highlights as she had the opportunity to co-create an immersive performance with the whole cohort which was unlike anything she’d done before.

After graduation, Kate has been given the opportunity to join Watson Dance Project, performing in works as part of Leeds 2023 and continuing to develop her curiosity and artistry.

CATO KENDALL-MUNIESA

AMELIA LONG BALDWIN

Cato was born in Bristol in 1999, and was introduced to breaking at 14. Stemming from this he gained artistic inspiration from artists Sam Amos, Will Pegna, Izaak Brandt and Sunni Brummitt. He started his training in contemporary with Rise Youth Dance, before joining the Balletboyz dancers course in 2018. His highlights at NSCD have been the choreographic works with Thick&Tight and Mathieu Geffré, as well as forming valuable bonds with his incredible cohort. After NSCD he will explore freelancing, expanding on his versatility across various artistic disciplines.

Born in 2001, Amelia started training at Trinity Laban in 2015. They then attended the Brit school from 2017-2019 studying in the dance strand. They were also a part of the NYDC 2018-2019 cohort with artistic director Botis Seva. After graduation Amelia is looking forward to freelancing in Leeds and travelling.

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ABIGAIL MANN

PIETRO MAZZOTTA

Born in 2001 Abi grew up in the midlands where she started contemporary at the age of 5. She later moved to the north of Manchester where she studied dance and drama at GCSE and A-level whilst also training at The Lowry as part of the CAT scheme.

Born in 2000, Pietro grew up in Lecce, Italy. Thanks to his sister, he discovered dance with salsa and bachata classes. He started studying ballet and contemporary aged 16.

A highlight of Abi’s training at Northern has been to connect with many likeminded people. Abi is excited to be pursuing many different passions and goals for her future. @abiinmovement

Pietro joined NSCD in 2019, working with choreographers Phil Sanger, Thick&Tight, Joseph Mercier, Imogen Reeve and Mathieu Geffré. During this past year Pietro also worked with Akram Khan, and performed in works by Alesandra Seutin at Riley Theatre and Sharon Watson at Leeds Playhouse.

From September, he is excited to continue his studies at NSCD as a member of VERVE. Alongside his training he wishes to keep exploring how his heritage and culture inform and elevate his dance practice. Pietro would like to thank those he met during these three years, without whom this experience would not have been so special. @pietro_mazzotta

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JAMES MOUNSEY

SOLVEIG HELENE WIIK PEDERSEN

James was born in Bradford, where he first started training in musical theatre aged 14 with Stage 84. James later gained a Diploma in Dance from Leeds City College, and attended the NSCD CAT scheme and Phoenix Youth Academy Seniors. Before gaining a place on the BA programme at NSCD he studied on the Access to HE course in 2018/19. James' highlights at NSCD include being able to improve on his physical vocabulary, creatively combining text with dance when choreographing a duet with AJ Stephenson and playing the Queen in Back to The Fuchsia II.

Born in 1998 in Oslo, Norway, Solveig started her dance training at the age of 4. After years of exploring various dance styles, she discovered her passion for contemporary dance and improvisation around the age of 16. A highlight from her time at NSCD would be the third year teaching module, as this module allowed her to grow significantly and discover herself, not only as a teacher, but more importantly as a person. After graduation, Solveig is moving on to study law in Norway, as well as furthering her practice as a dance teacher

James will be doing an apprenticeship with balletLorent as part of NSCD's MA Professional Placement Scheme and plans to further develop his practice including multidisciplinary works that use voice. @jamesmounsey00

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ZARA PHILLIPS

REGINE PHUA

Zara was born in 2000 and grew up in Liverpool. She began her contemporary training at the Lowry CAT scheme in Manchester, working with Akram Khan, Jamaal Burkmar and Phoenix Dance Theatre.

Born in Singapore, Regine started ballet at the age of 5. As she sought more training, she joined the PULSE Programme for 2 years, where she was taught by the dancers of Frontier Danceland. Before NSCD, Regine graduated from LASALLE College of the Arts in 2018 with a Diploma in Dance, performing restaged works by Simone Forti and Trisha Brown, and at commercial events for brands such as Shiseido and Porsche, as well as cocreating for Singapore Art Week.

She later joined National Youth Dance Company, touring MADHEAD by Botis Seva nationally. Zara’s highlight at NSCD was working as an apprentice with Rendezvous Dance Company in the creation and national tour of ‘The Monocle’. When she leaves she will really miss Eric’s wheeze and Matt’s growl.

Throughout the three years Zara has learnt that height is not an excuse and she will continue to use this as her superpower.

After graduation she will join VERVE, the postgraduate company of NSCD and will FaceTime Haizea every weekend to make sure she hasn’t found a new best friend.

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During her time at NSCD, Regine has worked with Phil Sanger, Thick&Tight, Joseph Mercier, Mathieu Geffré and Akram Khan. With a curious heart and an openmind, she hopes to continue performing and exploring her movement practice as a freelance dance artist, make a lot of sourdough bread and roller-skate around the world. @r25679

MARTHA PIGG

ELLA ROBERTS

Martha was born in 2000, York. She discovered contemporary dance through Northern Ballet’s Associate Programme and went on to join Phoenix Youth Academy and NSCD CAT. During her time at NSCD, she is thankful to have met and worked with so many wonderful people including choreographers Anna Williams, Yukiko Masui, Imogen Reeve, Eleanor Sikorski and Joseph Mercier. Martha would like to thank Joseph for the opportunities and insight that he continuously offers.

After graduation, Martha is looking forward to growing as a dance artist and producer, doing some baking and spending time with all the people who bring joy and creativity into her life.

Born in 2001, Ella began training at Swindon Dance (Exeter) CAT scheme from age 10 to 18. She joined National Youth Dance Company in 2017. During her time at NYDC Ella worked with choreographers Sharon Eyal and Botis Seva, performing both years at Sadler’s Wells and touring nationally. Ella was also part of the young cast for Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures, Romeo and Juliet in 2018. Ella’s highlight from her time at NSCD was taking part in Akram Khan’s two week R&D, which then led to an apprenticeship with Akram Khan Company for the creation of Jungle Book: Reimagined. After graduation Ella is excited to be joining NSCD’s postgraduate company VERVE and continuing her research in music composition.

She wants everyone graduating with her to know how endlessly grateful she is to have shared this year with them.

@ellaaa.roberts

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EMMA SAVOLDELLI-HARRIS

Born in 2000, Emma grew up in London.

They started dancing in 2015 with evening ballet classes, then went to Torino Italy for 4 months at Nuova Officina Della Danza, a contemporary dance programme. During their time at NSCD, Emma’s highlight was working with Joseph Mercier and Imogen Reeve in the 3rd year site-specific work Back to The Fuchsia II. Biggest thanks to her mama and Levi who they wouldn’t have survived the 3 years without. Next year they are looking forward to a placement year with balletLorent in Newcastle as part of NSCD's MA Professional Placement Scheme.

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LUKE SPEDDINGS

Born in Sheffield in 2000, Luke started his dance training at the age of 13. He started studying contemporary dance during sixth form and later joined the NSCD CAT scheme. He has prior training in acting, musical theatre and playing instruments, most notably the trombone. During his time at Northern he has worked with Phil Sanger, Akeim Toussaint Buck and Mad Dog's Dance Theatre. Luke's highlight from his time at NSCD was co-creating and performing his 3rd year duet with Martha Pigg, discovering a style of movement that resonated with him. After graduation, Luke is thrilled to be joining Protein Dance Company as an apprentice through the NSCD Masters programme.

JOHANNA SPIES

LIBBY STANT

Born in 1998 in Hamburg, Germany, Johnna discovered her passion for dance at a young age. Aged 17 she started training at Erika Klütz Schule, graduating in 2019 as a qualified dance teacher.

Libby was born on the Isle of Wight in 2001, and began ballet, tap and jazz classes aged 4. Moving to the West Midlands, she found contemporary at 15 inspired by Anna Lines, joining ACE Youth and the CAT scheme. During her time at Northern, she found a passion for floorwork, Gaga People and improvisation, working creatively with and performing work by Thick&Tight, Joseph Mercier and Imogen Reeves. A highlight for her has been working with Dread as Stage Manager, forcing him to teach her about lighting which allowed her to be lighting designer for research projects as well as the technician for New Ground 2021.

Libby's looking forward to trying everything and anything related and unrelated to the dance world, finding ways to keep moving, creating and enjoying life.

During her time at NSCD she has worked with artists including Thick&Tight, Alesandra Seutin, Akram Khan and Phil Sanger.

Johanna is beyond grateful to have had the opportunity to play, research, connect, laugh, and cry with all of her peers during the last three years. She thanks all students and staff for supporting, challenging, and believing in her, enabling her to become the person and artist she is today.

After graduating, Johanna is excited to start her freelance career in Madrid, continuing her Flamenco practice and continuing to developing her own choreographic language and research. @johanna.sps

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ELYSIA STEPHANI

EUAN STEPHEN

Elysia was born in 2001 in Limassol, Cyprus. From a very young age she trained in classical ballet and at the age of 16 she began her training in contemporary dance.

Born in sunny Glasgow, 1999, Euan started dancing aged 16 at local ballet classes.

When he realised his dreams of Swan Lake and pointe shoes were out the window, he found interest in contemporary, studying at West College Scotland. Before moving to Leeds, he was part of the National Youth Dance Company of Scotland, touring works to Australia and France. During his time at NSCD, he has performed works

by Phil Sanger and Akeim Toussaint Buck and worked with Akram Khan mbe. After graduating, Euan joins the National Dance Company Wales as an apprentice dancer for their 22/23 season as part of NSCD's MA Professional Placement Scheme.

He wants to give a shout out to his fellow cohort, who have come through what has been a distressing and disruptive couple of years, we made it!

During her time at NSCD she has worked with choreographers Amaury Lebrun, Kassichana Okene-Jamenson, Joseph Mercier, Imogen Reeve and Mathieu Geffré. One of Elysia’s highlights at NSCD was her teaching placements that have inspired her to continue her training in teaching after graduation.

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AJ STEPHENSON

OLIVIA TALBOT

AJ was born in 2001 in Glasgow, where she first began her dance training at The Dance School of Scotland (DSS) in 2014.

Two years later she was chosen to be part of the Scottish Ballet Youth Exchange programme to New York, working with NYU Tisch Performing Arts and performing in Manhattan’s Joyce Theatre. After experiencing contemporary dance for the first time and watching NDT 2 perform, she was inspired to pursue contemporary dance, joining NSCD’s Access to HE course in 2018, before gaining a place on the BA. During her final year she performed with Phoenix Dance Theatre at Leeds Playhouse and undertook a 2 week R&D period with Akram Khan supported by NSCD. AJ is excited to freelance next year and explore contemporary dance outside the UK.

Olivia was born in 2002 in Preston, where she danced at her local dance school from a young age. Olivia started studying at NSCD in 2018 on the Access to HE course, then continued her studies onto the BA. Throughout her time at NSCD, Olivia has performed works by Douglas Thorpe, Akeim Toussaint Buck, Joseph Mercier and Imogen Reeve as well as Phil Sanger.

After graduation, Olivia is excited to start a freelancing career, continue modelling and finally learn to drive.

@ajstephensonn

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CHASMINE TANGEN

AIDEN TAYLOR

Chasmine Fay was born in 1999 in Norway.

She started her ballet training at the age of 3 and then in love with dance after the first class. In addition to taking dance classes and competing on a national level in gymnastics, she studied dance for 3 years at Inderøy VGS and a year at Trøndertun Folkehøgskole.

Aiden was born in 2000 in Cheshire, northwest England. He started his dance training in 2016 at South Cheshire College, studying a variety of dance styles before joining the Access to HE course at NSCD in 2018 and later the BA. During his time at NSCD he had the pleasure of working with choreographers Akeim Toussaint Buck, Douglas Thorpe, Joseph Mercier, Imogen Reeve and Mathieu Geffré.

During her time at NSCD, Chasmine has had the pleasure of working with choreographers such as Amaury Lebrun, Thick&Tight and Eleanor Sikorski.

After graduation, Chasmine will continue her studies at NSCD in September as part of Watson Dance Project.

Aiden’s highlight from his time at NSCD is working with choreographer Joseph Mercier as a Glitterbomb Dancer with some of his peers, creating performances and touring a variety of LGBTQIA+ venues.

After graduating, Aiden will go on to work with Joss Arnott; studying for an MA with Emergence dance company and will continue to be confident, bold and sassy. @aidentaylor_x

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ELISAVET TSIOUTI

ALLEGRA VISTALLI

Elisavet was born in 2000 in Paralimni, Cyprus where she started training in ballet at the age of 3. From the ages of 8 to 19, Elisavet expanded her training in various dance styles including contemporary and jazz. During her time at NSCD she has worked with choreographers Phil Sanger, Kassichana Okene-Jameson, Joseph Mercier, Imogen Reeve and Mathieu Geffré. After graduation, Elisavet will continue to wiggle her limbs whilst freelancing and hopefully dance with Beyoncé one day.

Allegra is 20 years old and from a little village near Florence in Italy where she started training in ballet at a very young age. Before joining NSCD she studied contemporary dance at the Victor Ullate Escuela in Madrid. During her time at NSCD she had the pleasure of working with choreographers Phil Sanger, Thick&Tight, Joseph Mercier & Imogen Reeve and Mathieu Geffré. In her third year she had the opportunity to be part of the research and development for Akram Khan’s Jungle Book: Reimagined.

Allegra will forever be grateful for the family she found at NSCD, for her peers, teachers and staff that made this experience unique.

Allegra will continue her studies at NSCD as a member of VERVE and keep smiling while exploring her pathway as an artist. @allegravistalli

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JACK WARREN

BEN WHYMAN

Jack was born in 2000 in Winchester, where he started street and commercial dance at the age of 12, as well as musical theatre. He began studying contemporary dance at the age of 17, on an A level course at Peter Symonds College. During his time at NSCD, Jack has performed works by Phil Sanger, Akeim Toussaint Buck, Joseph Mercier, Imogen Reeve and Mathieu Geffré. His highlight was working with Joseph Mercier and Imogen Reeve, as well as the entire BA3 cohort to create and perform the site-specific work Back to The Fuchsia II. After graduation, Jack plans to freelance in Leeds and expand his interest and knowledge of dance within the queer scene.

Ben was born in 2001 in Reading, and began dancing at the age of 8 as a part of Mixed Motion, based in the West Berkshire area. Later he began to study contemporary dance at Kennet School Academy in Thatcham. During his studies at NSCD, Ben has worked with and performed works by Phil Sanger, Akeim Toussaint Buck and Eleanor Sikorski.

Ben used his time at NSCD to find a greater connection to the creative and choreographic side of his practice and after graduation plans to freelance, working collaboratively and independently.

@jackgwarren

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@b.fw__

MOLLY WILLIAMS

ELICIA YEARDLEY

Molly was born in 2002, and found her passion for dancing aged 4, as a way to burn off her energy! Molly trained on the CAT scheme at Trinity Laban before joining NSCD on the Access to HE course. During the BA, some highlights were the research and development period with Akram Khan and performing with her year group at CLAY. She has enjoyed assisting with the inclusive adult community group at NSCD, and hopes to continue this into the future.

Lis grew up in South Yorkshire and started dancing at a young age. She joined the CAT scheme at NSCD in 2016 and progressed onto the Access to HE course in 2018, as well as being a member of Phoenix Youth Seniors. During Lis' time at NSCD her highlight has been creating her own work and collaborating with other artists. She has enjoyed performing as part of the Glitterbomb Dancers, touring around the UK at LGBTQIA+ venues and working with such a fab group of people.

After graduating next year, Molly is excited to be joining VERVE, and continuing to eat cinnamon rolls from John. @molswilliams

Lis is excited to start her freelance career and see what life will bring. She has a passion for inclusive dance and is a new assistant artist at Sense Arts. She will forever cherish the memories made at NSCD @eliciayeardleycreative

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JULES YOUNG

ANGELA ZENARE

Jules Young was born in 2000 and grew up in Abergavenny, where he started dancing at the age of 14 with Monmouthshire Youth Dance Company at Dance Blast. He began studying dance at Hereford Sixth Form College before joining National Dance Company Wales Associates for a year prior to joining NSCD. During his time here he has particularly enjoyed creating his own work and working with choreographers such as Akram Khan. After graduation, Jules will be working in Leeds as a performer, creator and technician.

Angela was born in 2000 in Bassano del Grappa, Italy. She started her training in ballet at the age of 3 and discovered contemporary dance aged 15 at a local dance school, inspired by her teacher Marta Miranda.

In 2019 she moved to Copenaghen to join the pre-education course at CCDS. Angela’s highlight of her time at NSCD was the opportunity to perform in Sharon Watson’s Windrush: Movement of the People with Phoenix Dance Theatre - a very inspiring experience that gave her a taste of the professional world.

After graduation Angela will join NSCD’s Watson Dance Project and perform with the postgraduate company around Leeds. @angelazenare

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Congratulations Class of 2022!

Cover and performances © Elly Welford Headshots © Justin Slee Rehearsals © David Lindsay

Eleanor Sikorski headshot © Camilla Greenwell Phil Sanger headshot © Mark Hillyer

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Keep in touch northernschool Northern School of Contemporary Dance 98 Chapeltown Road, Leeds LS7 4BH

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info@nscd.ac.uk 0113 219 3000