Northern School of Contemporary Dance (NSCD) celebrates International Dance Day today by highlighting the VERVE Easter Intensive which ran earlier this month and the importance of community dance programmes in empowering young people to find out who they are.
The VERVE Easter Intensive is a four-day dance programme that runs annually to help young dancers improve their dance technique, expand their creativity, and learn VERVE repertoire created by world-renowned choreographers. VERVE is the international touring company of Northern School of Contemporary Dance, and the intensive is delivered by VERVE Company Alumni who represent the postgraduate company.
The aim behind the programme which has been running in Leeds for the last three years is to act on the enthusiasm for dance and the interpretation of music that young dancers aged 14-21 want to share and develop in. NSCD developed the community outreach idea to educate young people in professional repertoire and performance by taking daily classes in dance technique and creative sessions. Added benefits include helping to improve mental health, building self-esteem and confidence, valuing oneself and empowerment due to learning or enhancing this new skill, breaking out of comfort zones, and working with others to understand cultures and differences within the enriched local community of Leeds & internationally.
This year, the intensive had dancers attend from across the UK and eight international countries - and culminated in a performance on a professional stage at Riley Theatre, NSCD’s on-site theatre venue.
International Dance Day is a terrific way to celebrate the field of dance, raising awareness world-wide of the impact of creativity and every area of dance from formal training like ballet, to contemporary and avant-garde mediums as well as bringing everyone together to understand and welcome the inclusivity that dance provides.
Not only is it a great way to meet people, learn a new skill for life and keep moving, it has major health benefits, increases endorphins, promoting better health and can also be a great stress reliever particularly for today’s students who are about to take formal GCSE and A level qualifications.
Tracy Witney, Head of Learning and Participation at NSCD said:
“We believe dance is a powerful tool for children and young people to explore who they are, connect with others, and build resilience. Through our wide-reaching programme of classes, we offer fun, inclusive spaces where young people can express themselves creatively, grow in confidence, and feel a sense of belonging. From early years upwards, our work nurtures physical and emotional wellbeing while igniting a lifelong love of movement that strengthens our communities and celebrates the universal language of dance.”
A participant of the VERVE Easter Intensive commented:
“I feel I have really blossomed as a dancer this week and I have been able to see real improvements within not only my technique but my performance skills.”
As well as intensives and classes for young people, NSCD provides welcoming and inclusive classes for participants of all ages and abilities. Whether you are a beginner, an aspiring dancer, or simply looking for a creative outlet, there is something for everyone at NSCD.
We have a Summer School 2025 running this year which provides a similar experience for students aged 12-17 and 18+.
For more information on NSCD’s Learning & Participation classes and for how to get involved, visit: nscd.ac.uk/take-part
