Join us for our annual Freelance Networking Day, led by two Leeds based dance and teaching artists.

Both artists will share insights from their own unique practice, helping to spark discussion, exchange ideas and strengthen connections within the local dance community.

Schedule 

11:30 – Arrival, sign in, studio available for warm-up
12 – 1.30pm – Mayowa Ogunnaike – Contemporary technique
1.30 – 2.15pm – Lunch break
2.15 – 3.45pm – Will English – Improvisation
3.45 – 4pm – Break
4 – 4.30pm – Sharing from Phoenix Dance Theatre Company Dancers, Q&A with Douglas Thorpe
4.30 – 6pm – Gathering & open discussion facilitated by Mayowa Ogunnaike

Book here

Mayowa Ogunnaike

Mayowa is a British-Nigerian contemporary dance artist based in Leeds. Her name means ‘brings joy’ and she aims to encourage that sentiment throughout her practice.

In 2017 she graduated from Trinity Laban with a first class honours degree and an award for ‘outstanding achievement in Choreological Studies’. After graduating she joined Phoenix Dance Theatre as an apprentice dancer and has since worked as a performer for a variety of choreographers. Currently she is working on new productions with Gary Clarke Company and Léa Tirabasso.

Alongside performing, Mayowa delivers creative and technique classes across the UK, using this practice as an opportunity for sharing a wide ranging movement vocabulary, experimenting, collaborating with artists and facilitating cultural exchange.

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Will English

Will (he/him) is a freelance dancer and maker based in Leeds. Since graduating from dance school his career has taken him all over the UK & Europe performing for dance companies, fashion houses, theatre directors, musicians and more. He loves finding where dance can meet other artistic disciplines to create interesting and impactful work.