Why it matters: The collaboration between DanceEast's youngest students and EncoreEast's older performers challenges assumptions about age and ability whilst creating something entirely new through shared movement.
The details: Students aged 10-18 from DanceEast's Centre for Advanced Training have worked alongside EncoreEast dancers aged up to 84 this term. Together they have created an original piece choreographed by award-winning Alleyne Dance, who were recently named Guest Artistic Directors for the National Youth Dance Company's 2025/26 season.
The project will culminate in a sold-out performance at the Jerwood DanceHouse on Saturday, 2 August, as part of a mixed bill featuring works by leading choreographers including Hofesh Shechter Dance Company, Ceyda Tanc Dance, and Motionhouse.
What they're saying: Tom Bowes, Producer for Children and Young People at DanceEast, said bringing the groups together felt natural.
"There's something powerful about seeing people of different ages dancing together," he said. "Artistically, it creates such a rich dynamic; you get the fluidity and energy of youth alongside the depth and expressiveness that comes with age. Socially, it breaks down barriers."
Choreographers Sadé and Kristina Alleyne from Alleyne Dance said the intergenerational exchange made the project special.
"What made this project special was the richness of intergenerational exchange, how different lived experiences shape how a gesture is felt, seen, and offered," they said. "The result is a performance work based on living, breathing conversation across generations."
The bigger picture: For EncoreEast representative Stella Eldon, the collaboration represents their mission to promote dance for everyone.
"Intergenerational dance creates a space to connect in ways that are often limited in wider society," she said. "We have been so impressed by the young people's commitment, energy and professionalism."
Young participants have found the experience transformative. Tendai Dzvapatsva, aged 14, said: "This intergenerational project has not only taught us about dance but about life. I've learned not all journeys have to start at beginning, sometimes they begin with a return, a memory, or a spark of curiosity."
Poppy Evans, aged 12, added: "What I've really come to understand on this project, is being able to connect with others sharing the love of dance no matter what age, is what really made it special."
For context: The DanceEast Centre for Advanced Training offers high-quality training to young people aged 10-18 with exceptional talent and potential in dance from the East of England. It is part of a national programme supported by the Department for Education's Music and Dance Scheme. You can read all about one student's journey below:
The bottom line: This groundbreaking collaboration proves that dance transcends age barriers, creating powerful artistic and social connections that challenge preconceptions about what different generations can achieve together.
