Rodney Stevens
If you are young and have a passion for dancing and performing and looking for something fun and exciting to do during the January school holidays, it’s not too late to register to be involved in the Angourie Dance Youth Project Summer Program.
World class dance artists Janessa Dufty and Jade Dewi Tyas Tunggal aim to support Clarence Valley youth in their dancing journey and share their extensive experience and knowledge gained from dance touring nationally and internationally.
Both began their dance studies in the Lower Clarence and are excited for this opportunity to give back to contribute to the dynamic arts and cultural landscape in NSW with the next generation of local young dancers.
“Dancing is a great way to express emotions, communicating physically, allowing feelings to move through our bodies, out of our bodies, and in doing so, to move others,” Jade said.
Angourie Dance Youth Project is being funded by the NSW Government Create NSW and Office for Regional Youth following a competitive state-wide application process.
The Holiday Break Grants support the delivery of free creative workshops for regional youth.
Janessa and Jade will encourage young dancers to enjoy discovering their own creativity and expression through exploring contemporary dance techniques, choreographic processes, performance preparation and dancing for the camera.
“You learn more when you are enjoying what you are doing and having fun at the same time,” Janessa said.
Alongside working with local visual artist, Lisa Schoeppe, and musician, Michael Laurie, the project will include a collaboration with local videographer Gary Parker who will be producing a short dance film about the program.
“Young dancers will gain skills to develop their confidence and artistry in a supportive and collaborative environment,” said Jade.
Taking place at Raymond Laurie Sports Centre, Yamba and in Angourie nature, this four-day program runs 22 to 25 January 2024, from 9.30am to 3.30pm for people aged approximately 8 to 18 years.
The program will culminate with an informal ‘outdoors in nature’ performance on Thursday for family, friends, and the broader community.
Janessa and Jade would love to include a diversity of young dancers such as First Nations, Culturally Diverse, Deaf and people with a disability to join the program alongside those with formal dance training.
Everybody is invited and committed participation is FREE but completing an Expression of Interest Form is necessary.
The closing date for registrations has been extended until December 15.
To apply for the Angourie Dance Youth Project visit https://forms.gle/SbVdDSZ6z4K8G3g86
“Let’s dance and create together!” Janessa said.