Introducing: Phoenix Fridays
6 Mar 2024
Phoenix Fridays is a newly designed programme, which aims to support Leeds-based freelance dance artists working on ongoing projects particularly those looking to increase their visibility across the sector.
Recognising the needs of freelance artists regarding time, space and exposure, Phoenix Fridays have opened its doors at Phoenix Dance Theatre for two artists to access in-kind studio space since February 2024, with the programme concluding at the end of April 2024. This year’s programme will conclude with an informal sharing event hosted at Phoenix Headquarters. This new initiative is being launched with support from Arts Council England in response to the challenges freelance artists face, as they endeavor to gain support from and increase production opportunities with arts and funding organisations at large.
l-r: Akiem Toussaint Buck by Leah Cole Photography & John-William Watson by Camilla Greenwell
Akeim Toussaint Buck
Akeim Toussaint Buck is a multifaceted performer and maker, born in Jamaica and raised in England. Graduating from Northern School of Contemporary Dance in 2014, Toussaint Buck has been involved in many cross disciplinary projects working with a range of artists and communities from around the world. His focus as a maker is to combine expressive skills such as: dance, poetry, beat-box, singing and acting to deliver experiences that move people. The work aims to challenge, enlighten and entertain the spectator and participant. Audiences are not just observers; they are implicit in the experience. The work aims to reflect on reality, looking at ongoing socio-political situations with a humanitarian intention. Akeim’s choreography and performance work includes: Snakebox’s PLAY, Windows of Displacement, Reckoning, Sib Y Osis, Beatmotion and Souls & Cells. Film work includes Galvanise & Displaced etc. Movement Director credits include Far Gone, Carnival Chronicles, Idol, High Rise Estate Of Mind, Nine Night. Curated events Snakebox & Friends and Radical Visions. More information about Akeim can found on his official website, https://toussainttomove.com/
John-William Watson
John-William Watson is a freelance, Leeds based, choreographer, director and dancer – creating work that “looks at the absurdity of the world with a smile.” – The Stage. After graduating from The Royal Conservatoire of Antwerp in 2019, they swiftly carved a path for themselves creating critically acclaimed, surreal, self-described ‘dance-plays’ – often exploring the interplay between science fiction, dark-comedy and contemporary dance. Watson has previously received commissions from organisations such as Sadler’s Wells, Messums West and The Riley Theatre. They were a Young Associate Choreographer at Sadler’s Wells 2020-22, Northern Connection Artist 2021/22, and Messums West 4×20 Artist 2023. They have presented work at Sadler’s Wells Main House UK, Sadler’s Wells Lillian Baylis UK, The Riley Theatre UK, Birmingham Hippodrome UK, Pavilion Dance South West UK, Messums West UK, FABRIC Dance UK, Bartholomew Fair UK, Teatro Vascello IT, Noorderlicht Festival BE & Théâtre Basse Passière FR.’