La Creation, Dance of Life and Danse Macabre gave Kate Simmons School's pupils a feast of dancing. No sets and minimalistic backdrops exposed students and cried out for them to perform to their limits. Difficult scores performed by a live orchestra also meant the dancers had to listen and respond to the music. Contemporary pieces were choreographed by Emma Briggs and the classical sections by Peter Parker in La Creation. Dance of Life movement 1 choreographed by Gillian Hurst and the other 2 movements plus Danse Macabre by Kate Simmons.
The energy and commitment shown by the dancers was at times electrifying. The orchestra conducted by Daniel Parkinson was wonderful and not only inspired the dancers but also the audiences at the Brindley Theatre. What a project for students!
Jenny Hackwell excelled in her roles and has had an amazing year. Her latest triumph is to secure a contract with Northern Ballet Theatre. She will start in July. Congratulations!