our work

dance synergy

Dance Synergy

Dance Synergy is a 'pro-am' style dance company run by Eastside, in partnership with Chisenhale Dance Space in Bow, East London. Professional dancers and choreographers work and perform together with young people as part of the same combined dance company. The group, including young people who have never previously been involved in youth dance, share and develop their skills in regular Saturday morning dance classes and workshops. Dance Synergygives its members - dance practitioners from a number of different disciplines and young people from across Tower Hamlets - the opportunity to combine their talents and stretch each others abilities and experiences. This results in an exciting fusion of all the different dance styles and disciplines brought to the mix, which comprises of Contemporary Dance fused with elements of Latin, Street, Jazz, Indian and African Dance. During the summer holidays, the company meets for an intensive week of rehearsals to choreograph and present new work, often drawing inspiration from specialist guest workshops and masterclasses which have included: Bollywood and Kalaripayattu - an Indian martial art form; Salsa, Samba and Gafiera; traditional African dances from East and West Africa; and exploring dance for camera and commissioning new choreography for a performance showcase. Students are given responsibility for their own skills development and fitness levels, two dance captains are voted in each term with additional responsibility to run warm-ups and lead some sessions. Working in a professional dance space is a vital component in the mix; the young people respond very positively to being in an environment which enables them to develop skills in a professional way and outside of a school context. Performing alongside professionals also raises young people's confidence, levels of achievement and aspirations. Each year, the Dance Synergy ensemble takes part in public performances at Chisenhale Dance Space, at Eastside's charity gala and at local East End festivals and events.