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Dunkirk Primary school children create a new dance show ‘Getting Dressed’ with national children’s theatre company Second Hand Dance
Forty nine school children from the Foundation and Year 1 classes at Dunkirk Primary School in Nottingham are playing an important role in the creation of a brand new show by the national touring company Second Hand Dance.
Director and Choreographer Rosie Heafford says “I was inspired by watching the acrobatics performed when adults and children get dressed, whether it be balancing on one leg to put a shoe on or reaching around to grab that illusive side of the coat, it’s fascinating. Getting dressed by yourself is a huge milestone as a child as it shows independence, technical capability, maturity and the identity we choose to present to the wider world. This show subtly challenges some of the conventions, peer pressures and popular culture influences children encounter when starting school and I would like to encourage everyone, big and small, to be playful with the clothes they wear.”
Nottingham Lakeside Arts is hosting the workshops in the Djanogly Theatre over six weekly sessions, during which the show’s creative team are working alongside the two classes to play with ideas about dance, colour, fabric and movement. Some of the children’s voices will feature in the finished show with its 80’s inspired electronic soundscape.
Director of Lakeside Arts Shona Powell OBE, says “We’re delighted to welcome Dunkirk School to directly participate in Rosie’s creative process, and help to make a truly magical piece of dance theatre which will be enjoyed by thousands of children and families on the 16-date national tour. Children are both honest critics and enthusiastic participants, and I’ve no doubt that working alongside the dancers, composers, and choreographer they will arrive at something very special indeed.”
‘Getting Dressed’ is performed at Lakeside Arts on February 14 before it embarks on a national tour this Spring. Have you ever put your coat on the wrong-way? Or couldn’t find the right arm holes in your trousers? Or had a day where you just didn’t want to wear clothes? The show invites you to dive into a world of colour, texture and movement with Second Hand Dance. Whether they’re big or small, scratchy or soft, ordinary or extraordinary – one thing is for sure – clothes and getting dressed will never be the same again!