The Goldsmiths’ Company, one of the Twelve Great Livery Companies of the City of London, has provided a £3,000 grant to Leeds-based Phoenix Dance Theatre to help fund Undivided Loves. The new dance piece, which commemorates the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death, is part of Phoenix Dance Theatre’s Triple Bill 2016 tour.

Co-commissioned by Phoenix Dance Theatre, the longest standing contemporary dance company outside London, and Watford Palace Theatre, Undivided Loves explores a specific selection of Shakespeare’s Sonnets which were written privately, not for publication. Choreographed by Kate Flatt, Undivided Loves combines dance, dramaturgy and musical composition, whilst bringing to life the Bard of Avon’s timeless themes of desire, duplicity and unrequited love.

Nick Harland, Deputy Clerk of the Goldsmiths’ Company, commented:

‘Phoenix Dance Theatre has an excellent reputation in the world of contemporary dance and because of this, a large potential reach. The educational aspect of what they do is just as important as the dance itself, encouraging and inspiring young people to engage in the arts. The Goldsmiths’ Company Charity is happy to be sponsoring this new production, which will celebrate Shakespeare’s work and life in an innovative and educational way.’

Sharon Watson, Phoenix Dance Theatre’s Artistic Director, said:

‘It’s a real coup to be supported by such an iconic institution and we are thrilled to have The Goldsmiths’ Company on board with this exciting new show. Phoenix Dance Theatre prides itself on producing innovative and accessible work, and with this invaluable contribution we can continue to develop the scale and quality of what we do. Underpinning this new commission will be wide-reaching education programme focusing on a more modern way to interpret Shakespeare, bringing out the diversity and relevance of his work – so it’s a great way to engage with this landmark Shakespearian anniversary.’

Undivided Loves is part of Phoenix Dance Theatre‘s Triple Bill 2016 tour, which opens at the West Yorkshire Playhouse on 17 February 2016 before embarking on a national tour including Doncaster, Darlington and York.