YOUTH
ESD-in-School Residencies
ESD-in-School Residencies provide a wonderful opportunity for children to experience the creativity and movement of contemporary dance. By engaging directly with children, the residency programs give them the chance to be active, explore their creativity, and build confidence. These residencies offer a unique way for children to express themselves and create something meaningful through dance, often inspired by their surroundings, like landscapes, the environment, or even abstract concepts such as the universe and planets.
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The courses, which typically run for 6-8 weeks, cater to the individual needs of each school and can be scheduled during or after school hours. Through this program, children not only learn new skills but also have the chance to perform in front of their families (or in digital form / film), helping them develop their self-esteem and social bonds.
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The testimonial from Kate Dalkin, Year 6 Teacher and PE Leader at Westerhope Primary School, emphasises the transformative impact these residencies can have on students, particularly those who might initially be shy or lacking in confidence. By the end of the program, children were able to take pride in their accomplishments and see themselves as dancers, which speaks volumes about the program's positive influence.
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"As a school, we were very grateful for expert dance tuition, some of the children who signed up were very shy and lacked confidence when performing. Through ESD's careful nurturing, the children were all able to take part in a videoed performance that was celebrated with parents and carers. All of the children involved certainly gained lots of confidence and by the end of the workshops definitely saw themselves as dancers."
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These residencies serve as a powerful tool for building self-assurance and teamwork, all while nurturing creativity and physical activity. It's an ideal program for schools looking to offer their children a fresh, enriching experience in the arts.​
Workshops
ESD workshops are designed to be flexible and accessible, offering a 60-minute, immersive experience into the ESD style of contemporary dance. These workshops can take place at a variety of locations, including schools, colleges, museums, and community centers, ensuring that they are accessible to different groups and settings. Whether it’s for young children, teens, or adults, the workshops are tailored to suit the age, ability, and number of participants, making them inclusive and adaptable to a wide range of learners.
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Each workshop is led by a skilled ESD teaching artist, who brings expertise and passion for dance, guiding participants through a dynamic and engaging experience. By working with a professional, participants not only learn the technical aspects of dance but also gain a deeper understanding of creative expression, movement exploration, and teamwork.
These workshops can also be themed around ESD repertoire, specific concepts, such as nature, the universe, or abstract ideas, providing a unique and enriching experience for all involved.
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The structure and focus of the workshops make them a perfect fit for schools and community organisations looking to introduce children, young people, and adults to contemporary dance or deepen their artistic practice. The combination of creative exploration, physical activity, and expert instruction ensures a fulfilling and positive experience for participants of all levels.
For questions on how to join the growing ESD School Partner, please email education@eliotsmithdance.com
For questions on how to book an ESD workshop, please email education@eliotsmithdance.com