Joy, playfulness, connection Norwich Youth Dance Theatre

NYDT meets every Wednesday during term time from 18:30–20:30 at Copperdot Studio in Norwich. We start with a check-in chat to see how everyone is doing and what’s been happening in their lives since last week. We then do a warm-up that includes a pulse-raiser (a set movement phrase or movement game), a mobilisation sequence (choreographed or improvised), and stretching (a combination of static and dynamic).

We then move on to a technique class, which slightly changes each week – there is always a focus on developing specific dance techniques. Some that Steph has identified and others that have been suggested by the group.

The final hour is our creation time. This is where we work on creating, rehearsing, and refining choreography for upcoming performances/sharings. We always end with a cool down and stretch.

From a physical perspective, participants are also engaging in 2 hours of physical activity each week. Each weekly session includes educating young people about safe practice when engaging in physical activity (adequate warm up, mobilisation, stretching, cool down etc). There are also cardio and strength elements embedded into the sessions. We regularly speak about the importance of hydrating and fuelling the body, especially when engaging in physical activity.