DANCEEAST - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- DIGITAL PRIMARIES PROGRAMME MANAGER
DIGITAL PRIMARIES PROGRAMME MANAGER She/Her DanceEast is where, in 2016, I spent my first day out of the classroom and into the cultural sector (and I have always felt so welcome!). I worked for 10 years as a primary school teacher, mostly early years, and then joined one of Arts Council England's 10 Bridge organisations; Festival Bridge. As Education Programme Manager, I often delivered Artsmark training to schools from the Jerwood DanceHouse. I joined the team part-time in March 2024 alongside my role as Schools Lead at Music Mark.
I was born, and have lived, in Ipswich all my life. I enjoy dancing salsa and ballroom socially, going on dance holidays, and have also performed in the past. Before joining DanceEast, my working life was spent in IT, more recently in software consultancy, support, training, and project management.
Amelia originally trained as a dancer at The Royal Ballet School and is now a physiotherapist, dance science educator and Pilates instructor.
A lifelong resident of Ipswich, Andrew studied at the Royal Academy of Music as a composer and pianist. Having retired from full-time employment in 2014 music is no longer a ‘spare time' activity, involving conducting, playing and arranging music, and - when the mood takes him (which it doesn't much these days) - composing. Locally he is involved principally with the Ipswich Operatic Society and Trianon Music Group. Until 2021 he was the Musical Director for the Ipswich Gilbert & Sullivan Society, having originally started playing the piano for them in 1986.
Locally Andrew has appeared with the Ipswich Symphony Orchestra as the soloist in Stravinsky's Petrouchka and with Trianon as soloist (twice) in the Warsaw Concerto. Other work has been as an orchestrator and arranger, with arrangements including selections from MGM Musicals, Abba, James Bond and also selections of popular music. Andrew also arranged and orchestrated William Godball's Ipswich New Town Hall Polka for Trianon's September concert in 2013. He has also given piano recitals for Ipswich Arts, and at Wingfield Barns, Suffolk.
Born and raised in South-East London, Ben was diagnosed as dyslexic aged eight. He previously held posts at Liverpool John Moores University, Robert Gordon University, and Aberdeen University. Ben founded Global Philanthropic in 2002 in Hong Kong; it now operates in the UK, Australia, USA and Canada. As Group CEO, he specialises in higher education, Asian philanthropy, major gift strategy, brand/organisational development, and international campaigns. Ben has served as senior strategy consultant to the United Nations and the world's top Universities. He advises private individuals, speaks on philanthropic issues, and co-authored ‘Talking Philanthropy, Volume 1' (2017). Ben is a Member of Council for Goldsmiths, University of London.
Job Titles:
- HEAD of OPERATIONS & RESOURCES
I joined DanceEast in 2011, having worked in a number of multi-arts venues for over 20 years. Having a passion for contemporary dance I was drawn from Scotland to Ipswich by the opportunity to work in this incredible building. In my role, no two days are the same, given the variety of work we do, both in and outside the DanceHouse.
I arrived in Ipswich to join DanceEast in March 2013. I have always worked in dance and started, as a dancer, back in 1979 when there was virtually no dance dedicated infrastructure. Consequently, the Jerwood DanceHouse is a fantastic example of just how much has changed since then. It, therefore, feels like a particularly special privilege to be leading such a fantastic organisation and working in a building, that I could have only imagined, when I started my career.
Job Titles:
- HEAD of COMMUNICATIONS & DEVELOPMENT
As Head of Communications and Development I am responsible for inspiring people to support DanceEast, and for developing our audiences. I previously worked with museums, galleries and arts centres across Hampshire. While I have no background in dance, I believe it can be transformative for people of all ages and backgrounds. I am excited by the range of DanceEast's work, from community projects to outstanding performances at the Jerwood DanceHouse. It is a privilege to work for this fantastic organisation.
Charlotte graduated from the University of Worcester in 2014 with an honours degree in Sports Therapy which entites her to a full membership under The Society of Sports Therapist. Since that time, Charlotte has worked in the private sector taking a special interest in musculoskeletal disorders. She has been the lead Sports Therapist at both Leiston Football Club & Felixstowe & Walton Football Club.
Chris Gribble is the CEO of The Forum Trust, the independent charity that runs the East of England's Millennium Commission landmark Forum building in the heart of Norwich.
Chris completed his professional training at English National Ballet School, where he regularly performed with the company. As a professional ballet, Chis was Principal Dancer at Northern Ballet. Whilst performing with the company, he worked closely with a number of different choreographers including David Nixon, Christopher Hampson, Cathy Marston, Val Caniparoli and Mark Godden.
I have loved the theatre and have danced from a young age, so thoroughly enjoy working at DanceEast. It's great to meet so many different people whether they are here to participate in a class, watch a performance, or perform.
After graduating from UCC Colchester with a degree in technical theatre studies I've fulfilled most technical roles in a theatre environment and have also freelanced around Essex and Suffolk as a Sound and Lighting Production Technician. I've worked in all styles of live events from music, live art, dance and corporate. I'm always keen to play with the most modern technologies and give the best quality technical production possible and DanceEast gives me that opportunity.
Daden is a partner at Birketts LLP, specialising in dispute resolution. He is a graduate of the University of Surrey and it was whilst studying for his degree in Moscow that Daden developed an interest in dance. Since becoming a Trustee in 2011, Daden's appreciation of, and enthusiasm for, dance in all its forms has continued to grow and he is constantly in awe of the creativity of the world class artists performing at the Jerwood DanceHouse. Daden also now experiences dance at the grassroots, community level as the father of a dance mad 8 year old daughter.
PROGRAMME MANAGER She/Her Originally from Norwich, I began training at the Anglia Region Theatre School. Later, focussing specifically on contemporary dance and earning a First-Class Honours degree from the University of Lincoln. During my studies, I worked with choreographers and companies such as Nori Aoki, Verve and James Wilton Company, and developed skills in screen dance, digital technology and site-specific work. Most recently, I worked with the DanceEast CAT, coordinating activity and supporting the development of young dancers, while also teaching as a freelance community artist. I am now the Programme Manager at DanceEast, where I oversee classes, workshops and other exciting activities.
My main interests are Genealogy, I have a large family tree and daily add more. Also, I aim to do some metal detecting soon. I love history and like to visit historical buildings and landmarks both here and abroad.
Laura Bryars CAT SUPPORT TEAM Laura started her dance training at the Northern School of Contemporary Dance Centre for Advanced Training (CAT). After completing three years Laura plunged into the wonderful world of musical theatre, training at the Urdang Academy. After graduating with a diploma in Musical Theatre and Dance, Laura performed in the UK tour of Teechers by John Godber, appeared in Off West Production'sThe Fix and Billy Liar, where she became dance captain and rehearsal director. Laura has also worked with Phoenix Dance Theatre, Rambert and completed a one-year course as part of the Matthew Bourne's New Adventures Overture 2019/2020. Laura is associated with DanceEast as a freelance dance artist and continues to work professionally within community organisations. Elin Anderson CAT SUPPORT TEAM Born and raised in Suffolk, Elin spent most of her childhood and teenage years dancing. Thanks to the training she received as a CAT student at DanceEast, she continued developing as an artist at Rambert School whilst having the opportunity to work with some incredible people. After graduation, Elin began her MA at LCDS and worked in Copenhagen with Danish Dance Theatre, touring a production internationally. Elin then returned full circle and worked at DanceEast as a Kickstart Company member.
Emily trained on the classical course at Tring Park. Graduating in 2000, she went on to perform with numerous dance companies both in the UK and internationally. Following this Emily spent several years at English National Ballet in production and tour management, producing the acclaimed My First Ballet tours in conjunction with English National Ballet School (ENB).
Gary Leach is a drummer, percussionist and teacher with a range of styles from swing to Afro-beat; pop to jazz. He specialises in drumming for dance and has worked with DanceEast and The Royal Ballet School's regional dance programmes since 2008.
Job Titles:
- SALES & COMMERCIAL MANAGER
SALES & COMMERCIAL MANAGER She/Her I have worked across a range of sectors including hospitality, healthcare, and recruitment, mainly focusing on customer service and forming client relationships. Theatre has been a passion of mine from an early age both participating in and observing and whilst I don't have a background specific to dance, I am excited to be in a role that allows me to witness creativity, inclusivity and innovation on a daily basis. My role as Sales and Commercial Manager allows me to work across all customer facing areas of DanceEast and see our customers enjoying everything this unique venue has to offer, from classes and events, to private hire, or simply enjoying a coffee in the café with friends.
George began her training at the DanceEast Centre for Advanced Training (CAT) before graduating from London Contemporary Dance School. Throughout her freelance career she has performed in contemporary, TV, commercial, and hip hop theatre work.
Having worked across a diverse range of contemporary performance and academic projects over the past thirty years, joining DanceEast in 2019 takes me, to some extent, full circle as my career in performance technology and lighting design started at Dundee Rep where I enjoyed my first design commissions with the resident dance company. My key interests are Performance Studies, democratisation of technology and design across all disciplines.
I studied Dance at the University of Bedfordshire from 2014-2017, where I then stayed for another year to complete my Masters. Graduating in 2018, I began working across Essex, Suffolk and Bedfordshire as a freelance artist, working with various people from all ages and abilities, which I have continued to do for the past 6 years. I started teaching at DanceEast in 2019 and have been teaching here ever since. I thoroughly enjoy being at DanceEast due to the welcoming atmosphere, wonderful people, and fantastic building. I am thrilled to be working here full time from June 2024.
Calvin Goymer PIANIST Calvin started playing for the Suffolk County Council Ballet Scholarship Scheme with DanceEast in 2001. He was subsequently invited to play for a variety of additional classes such as Adult Tap, Adult Ballet and the Ballet Enrichment classes. Read more about Calvin Hej Jones PERCUSSIONIST
I joined DanceEast in October 2007 as a Front of House Assistant working primarily in the evening. I then combined this role with working as the finance assistant when I had a career change in 2009. I remember when the Jerwood Dance House was a building site and have had some memorable times working here. I am now the Finance & Admin Officer. I love watching dance and all theatre and try and see as many shows as possible.
SALES & ADMIN ASSISTANT She/They I have a background in Film, TV, and writing, but I also danced for many years. Born and raised in Ipswich, I love all things local! I've worked with the Wolsey 550 project, Norfolk and Norwich Festival, SPILL Festival and I'm thrilled to now work at DanceEast. I'm involved in numerous community groups, running events with organisations such as Led Creatives and Young Artists In Suffolk, as well as contributing to Community Hub Ipswich's Youth Council. I'm a committee member of the Ipswich Film Society, based out of King Street Cinema where I have also previously worked.
Job Titles:
- Artist from the East of England
Isis is a dance artist from the East of England and London who attended DanceEast CAT from 11-18 and consequently became part of the National Youth Dance Company, before training at London Contemporary Dance School, where she acted as Student Representative. Her experiences have made her interested in all dance has to offer, from performing at festivals to physical theatre, to event planning and producing. She is committed to understanding how the arts changes so rapidly and reflecting that at DanceEast however that might manifest.
Raised in Ipswich, James started dancing at the Linda Shipton school of Dance and went on to train full-time at the Royal Ballet School, graduating from Central School of Ballet in 2006 with a BA (hons) degree in Professional Dance. After joining Northern Ballet that same year he went on to work with Peter Schaufuss Ballet in Denmark and Theatre Ulm in Germany.
In 2013 James returned to the UK to join Richard Alston Dance Company (RADC). Since then he has toured extensively in Europe and the USA performing in a wide variety of work by Alston and associate choreographer Martin Lawrance. In 2019 he also performed the role of interim Rehearsal Director for RADC.
James is currently a lecturer in Cunningham Technique at Middlesex University and also teaches regularly at The Place for Dance in London alongside his role as CAT tutor in Ipswich. He has also served as a board member for ‘Bodies in Action' Dance company since 2021, contributing to their creative output.
In 2017, James created ‘Symbiotic' for the Resolution Dance festival and since 2018 has choreographed numerous works for ‘Multiphonic Arts' performances at the Asylum Chapel in Peckham.
Job Titles:
- MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
Dance has been part of my life since I was 8 years old, so I was excited when the opportunity to progress in my career became available at DanceEast. I am looking forward to using my skills to get the word out about the opportunities available at DanceEast for people in the East of England. As well as dancing, I enjoy hiking, reading and spending as much time outdoors as I can.
SALES & ADMIN ASSISTANT She/Her I started dancing in my final years of primary school, studying a variety of styles, from ballet and tap, to being self taught in Hip Hop. I've had the pleasure of performing in a wide range of venues across England, including the Royal Albert Hall. Being a creative person, working at DanceEast gives me the opportunity to interact with professional dance artists and those completely new to dance, hearing their stories and watching their ideas come to life in the studio and on stage.
SALES & ADMIN ASSISTANT He/Him I joined DanceEast in 2023. I'm local to Ipswich and have worked in a variety of jobs ranging from car sales to bar management. I have had the pleasure of being part of several dance shows thanks to my partner, Rosy, which has been great fun and has given me an insight into the world of a professional dance artist. I am also a self-employed Social Media Manager, working with some amazing companies and brands to help develop & maintain their online presence. Alongside this, I'm a Content Creator, focussing on livestreaming and video creation. I really enjoy the creative freedom that comes with this, crafting video content from its initial inception all the way through to editing and marketing.
SALES & VENUE SUPERVISOR He/Him I joined DanceEast in 2021 after three years working as a session musician. I previously achieved a Level 3 Diploma in Digital Marketing and Social Media Management which gave me the skills to promote myself and my music enough that I could call it my full-time profession. Now taking up this new role at DanceEast, I work with lots of different and creative minded people whilst also playing and creating music in my spare time.
Jonathan is a Physiotherapy Extended Scope Practitioner and specializes in musculoskeletal disorders. Jonathan qualified with an Honours degree in Physiotherapy from Brunel University.
Originally from Ipswich, Judy trained at the Linda Shipton School of Dancing and Laine Theatre Arts before cruising the world as a dancer on the prestigious cruise liner Queen Elizabeth 2. Combining her performance skills with a love of fitness, Judy went on to train as a fitness instructor and became a teacher trainer and assessor.
SALES & ADMIN ASSISTANT She/Her Since starting dance, I have immersed myself in various styles, specialising in Contemporary and Classical Ballet. My passion for Contemporary Dance began when I started my training at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance on the CAT scheme. I continued my training at Trinity Laban studying Contemporary Dance, achieving a First-Class Honours Degree as well as a Distinction in my Masters in Advanced Dance Performance at Dance City. Studying dance gave me the chance to expand my skills, further my technique and instilled a deep appreciation for the art form and it's potential to inspire and connect. This is something I love to share with others and will continue to do so through my teaching and creative work. My passion for dance, teaching and customer service has led me to DanceEast and I am so excited to be part of the team, welcoming you all to the DanceHouse!
Julian Lewis graduated from Trinity Laban in 2013 and has since performed across the UK & Europe with EDGE Dance Company, Bowie Live and Ffin Dance. Julian has also performed for Marvel Studios, Pinot! The Musical, Cascade Dance Theatre and the London 2012 Olympic Closing Ceremony, as well as projects at venues including the Royal Opera House, the Royal Albert Hall for BBC Proms, The Old Vic Tunnels and The Place. Julian is the co-director of Traceworks Dance, with whom he has performed, as well as choreographed and produced a range of professional projects. In 2019, he also completed his masters degree, fulfilling the role of rehearsal director on Celebration Event - a project commemorating Merce Cunningham's Centennial performed by students at London Contemporary Dance School.
Julian is passionate about sharing his professional practice with the wider community, and he regularly tutors in both recreational and pre-vocational settings at The Place, Trinity Laban and DanceEast. From 2016-2021, he was the director of B40 Youth Dance Company on behalf of Greenwich Leisure Limited, and he is also a guest teacher for Springs Dance Company and the Central School of Ballet Associate Programme. In 2023, Julian was a dance captain for Manchester Pride Parade, supporting choreographer Ruth Jones and 100 Booking.com staff for their performance alongside Conchita Wurst.
Julian Lewis graduated from Trinity Laban in 2013 and has since performed across the UK & Europe with EDGE Dance Company, Bowie Live and Ffin Dance among other companies and projects. Julian has also worked as a rehearsal director, is the co-director of Traceworks Dance, and has developed his teaching practice working for a range of schools and conservatoires throughout his career.
Kate trained at London Studio Centre, gaining a BA Hons in Theatre Dance. During her time there she was a member of Intoto Dance Company, working with choreographers such as Rafael Bonachela, Jonzi D, Vivienne Newport and Michael Popper. Through her performance career Kate has worked with the Royal Opera House, Foot In Hand Dance Company, Ruff Cut Dance Theatre, Turbulance Dance Company, Base Dance Company, Sol Dans Company and Helix Dance.
Kate has taught extensively throughout her career, working with schools, youth groups and vocational schools. In 2016, she set up Cambridge Youth Dance Company, for 15 - 19 year olds, to train and perform in contemporary dance. As a member of the faculty on the DanceEast Centre for Advanced Training, Ipswich, she has worked as Rehearsal Director to Joss Arnott, Tim Casson, Sarah Dowling, Jasmin Vardimon Company, Yael Flexer, Michaela Meazza, Alexander Whitely and Re:bourne.
Kate has choreographed pieces for Bodywork Company, Chrysalis London, DanceEast Centre for Advanced Training, Shift West for DanceDigital, Move IT!, as well as corporate events and charities.
PROGRAMME COORDINATOR She/They Since graduating from the University of Lincoln with a Bachelor's Honours and Master's degree in dance, I have been touring Europe as part of the People Power Partnership (PPP) dance-theatre project. I am thrilled to reconnect with DanceEast and the local community, to continue promoting accessibility and inclusivity in dance.
Job Titles:
- CONTEMPORARY and CREATIVE TUTOR
Katie trained at London Contemporary Dance School and graduated in 2009. Katie joined Tavaziva Dance in 2009. She danced toured and taught for the company for over five years.
Passionate about creating new theatre and film, Laura Williamson Biggs trained at London Contemporary Dance School (2002 - 2005), The Pit Theatre in New York and DanceEast in Suffolk. She started out on the Suffolk Scholarship Scheme; the beginning of the CAT programme at Dance East as we know it now. Laura has been a contemporary dancer and Movement Director for her entire professional career.
Belgian born Laura Vanhulle moved to the UK in 2006, to complete her BA(hons) degree at Northern School of Contemporary Dance and was selected to undertake an apprenticeship with Ace Dance and Music, Shobana Jeyasingh(Counterpoint) and Motionhouse (The Voyage).
She has since maintained a successful career performing for a diverse range of companies and choreographers, including Mickael Marso Riviere, Oliver Robert Russell, Coda Dance Theatre, Keneish Dance Theatre, Rutherford Dance Company, Sonia Sabri Company, Room2Manoeuvre, Autin Dance Theatre, Ace Dance and Music, Gary Clark, Gustavo Oliveira, Rogue Play, South Paw dance Company and James Wilton, touring nationally and internationally.
Laura has a strong teaching reputation across the UK, on behalf of organisations such as NSCD, The Place, Rambert, Trip Space (London), Swindon Dance, Dance City, Dance East, The Lowry, Freefalldance, DanceXchange, Elmhurst, Wolverhampton University, Coventry University, Edge Hill University. She has taught Internationally in Portugal-Porto (Summer Intensive Portugal), Greece and Belgium (Muda - Passerelle).
In 2013 Laura established Vanhulle Dance Theatre and has choreographed a range of indoor and outdoor works, including Angles in Life, Echo, Infinite Womanhood, Yin and Moo Shim. Most recently, Laura Vanhulle is touring alongside Oliver Russell in VDT's new outdoor work, Dovetail, choreographed by Mickael Marso Riviere, music composed by Domenico Angarano.
Laura studies Negaca Capoeira under the instruction of Mestre Chitaozinho and the Korean martial art Tang Soo Do under Grand Master Khan. In July 2022 she was selected to represent Great Britain at the WTSDA World Championships in Greensborough, North Carolina, USA. She won gold in Hyungs, weapons, and sparring, in the brown belt adult female division.
Job Titles:
- SALES & VENUE MANAGER ( on Maternity Leave )
I love dance! I love to experience dance, to teach, to facilitate and to encourage everyone to give it a try! Working as Venue and Sales Manager at the Box Office brings me so much joy as I love welcoming everyone to the DanceHouse, knowing that they will have the opportunity to experience dance for themselves. I also work in the community teaching dance/creative movement to young children and their families.
Job Titles:
- CONTEMPORARY & CREATIVE TUTOR
Originally from Italy, Luca is a London-based dance artist and academic with over ten years of international experience in performance, education, and choreography. Since 2019, Luca has worked with Blanca Li, Amina Khayyam Dance Company, LîLa Dance, Fuora Dance Project, Akademi and Dora Frankel Ensemble as a performer and facilitator. Since 2015, he has directed BARBERDANCE / lucabraccia&Co, delivering learning and community engagement activities alongside performances in China, Italy, Portugal, and the UK. Moreover, Luca also works as a Contemporary Dance Technique Tutor at the English National Ballet School and Kings International Ballet Academy and as a Lecturer in Reflective Practice for the L6 Diploma in Dance Pedagogy at the ISTD. Since 2019, with Leila McMillan and Julia Testa, he has hosted and curated the first-ever Flying Low and Passing Through sessions in London at Studio Wayne McGregor.
As a dancer, Luca performed works by Jiri Kylian, Merce Cunningham, Shobana Jeyasingh, Gauri Sharma Tripathi, Patricia Okenwa, Tony Adigun, Mauro Bigonzetti, Adriana Borriello, Allen and Karen Kaeja and more. Luca's teaching portfolio includes Trinity Laban, London Contemporary Dance School, National Dance Academy of Rome, DanceEast, DanceCity, DanceXchange, TripSpace, The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, The Scottish School of Contemporary Dance, Newcastle College, the Northumbria University, and the University of Arts London. Between 2019 and 2023, he was Senior Lecturer and Course Leader for the first UK 2-year accelerated BA (Hons) in Dance at the University of Suffolk, delivered in partnership with DanceEast in Ipswich. As a rehearsal director, Luca assisted choreographers Hagit Yakira, Zoi Dimitriou, Tim Casson, Christopher Owen, Helen Baggett, and Alison Curtis-Jones.
Luca has won awards, including the Premio Claudio Abbado 2015 (Italian Ministry of Education, University and Research) for choreography and Movin'Up 2016 (Italian Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Activities and Tourism). In 2023, he was appointed Artistic Director of The Remarkables Dance Company based at The Mill Arts Centre in Banbury.
ARTISTIC ASSOCIATE She/Her I've worked in dance and performance for over twenty years in many roles from Creative Practitioner to Arts Manager and Curator. I joined the team at DanceEast in 2023 after ten years at DanceXchange, Birmingham, where I led the Performance and Artist Development programme. I am passionate about connecting people with transformative performance experience both in theatre and public spaces, and supporting artists in their creative practice. I enjoy reading, yoga, long walks amongst nature and my newfound hobby of silversmithing!
Job Titles:
- HEAD of CREATIVE PROGRAMMES
HEAD OF CREATIVE PROGRAMMES She/Her I've worked in a number of roles with DanceEast - there's always more to learn and more to give and no two days are the same, which I love. I feel lucky to work with such a brilliant team and in the beautiful Jerwood DanceHouse, which I remember being built. I try and use my time here to share these resources with artists, young people and communities in the hope that they will also find something rewarding about great dance.
Lucy is an Independent Dance Artist BA (HONS) & PG dip Cert, Registered Dance Movement Psychotherapist (MA, RDMP) and Clinical Supervisor (SAP Cert) who specialises in contemporary release technique, improvisation and somatic practices.
After undergraduate and post-graduate training at Trinity Laban, where she studied Theatre Studies and Community Dance in Education, Lucy worked in Community Dance Practice, where she has developed her practice for 20 years.
I'm excited to be part of the DanceEast Development Team, helping to create meaningful experiences and connections with people through the enjoyment of dance.
I graduated from the University of Sussex with a BA (Hons) in English Language and have since had roles in film production and local theatre.
I've loved theatre and dance from a young age and am currently studying for my teaching qualification in tap dance, with the aim to teach locally when I'm not at my desk!
Magnus Spence is a data and consulting business entrepreneur, specialising in the investment industry. He is a graduate of The London School of Economics. He and his family moved to Woodbridge in Suffolk in 2003. He became a Trustee of DanceEast in 2019 and now sits on the Finance Committee. His interest in dance has been inspired by visits to performances at the Jerwood Dancehouse over many years. His dance education still has a long way to go, but he is very much enjoying the journey.
My career and background are in Arts Development, Youth and Community Work, and Education where I taught Art and Textiles. My involvement in dance goes back many years and includes working with Suffolk Dance (the precursor to DanceEast); organising community workshops; and as a parent, as both my daughters have extensive dance training and careers in Dance. I am delighted to be connected with DanceEast and aim to bring my extensive experience of community participation and formal education to my role as Trustee.
Job Titles:
- Director of Education
- BALLET TUTOR
Massimo Solazzo started learning ballet at the age of 5 and been in the industry for nearly 30 years. He is a prominent dancer who passed all the exams from Primary to Advanced 2 at the Royal Academy of Dance Examinations.
In 1993 Massimo got three years full-course scholarship at the prestigious Bird College of Performing Arts in London. Over the years, he worked with famous teachers such as Frank Freeman, Lynn Wallis, Darren Parrish, Antony Croome, Susan Town, Dick O'Swamborn and few others. Beside ballet, he also ventured his studies in character, jazz, modern contemporary, tap, drama, singing, music theory, anatomy and choreography. He graduated in Ballet, Choreography and Musical Theatre in 1996 and became RAD registered teacher.
Massimo has performed numerous numbers of musicals and ballet performances with top notch production houses in the U.K. and Europe. He also has served for many important competitions and recitals as a guest dancer and choreographer.
In 2012 Massimo became RAD CBTS Tutor and Mentor (Teaching Certificate validated by Royal Academy of Dance, London) and since then he had done countless training workshops, intensive training courses and coaching in Italy, China and Switzerland.
In 2014 Massimo attended the Ailey School Certification for Horton Pedagogy and Contemporary Dance Teaching (New York, USA), working with the Ailey Teachers such as Tracy Innman, Bradley Shelver, and Elisabeth Roxas.
In 2014 Massimo became the Director of Education and Curriculum Designer of the Duncan Dance Academy New York - based in China. He trained many students and teachers in several RAD schools in Hong Kong, China, Singapore and Malaysia.
In 2018 Massimo has been nominated Examiner of the Royal Academy of Dance which added another milestone on his career.
Being a highly passionate dancer and teacher, he always place utmost pleasure in his teachings and positively encourages students to express themselves, improving strong technical skills, self-understanding and personal manner. He believes dance is a beautiful way of communication to express oneself.
Massimo Solazzo started learning ballet at the age of 5 and been in the industry for nearly 30 years. He secured a prestigious three-year scholarship at London's Bird College of Performing Arts and became a registered RAD teacher.
Massimo has performed in musical and ballet performances across the UK and Europe. He became an RAD CBTS Tutor and Mentor, conducting training worldwide, including Italy, China, and Switzerland. He gained certification in Horton Pedagogy and Contemporary Dance Teaching from the Ailey School in New York and took on the role of Director of Education and Curriculum Designer at the Duncan Dance Academy in China. He has trained students at RAD schools in Hong Kong, China, Singapore and Malaysia. Massimo was nominated as an Examiner for the Royal Academy of Dance.
Megan graduated from London Contemporary Dance School in 2010. Since then she has performed and taught across the UK and Europe. She has performed and worked with Ffin Dance, where she was also rehearsal director, James Cousins Company, Pell Ensemble, Scarlett Mackmin, Madeby Katie Green, Moxie Brawl, Amir Hosseinpour, Jonathan Lunn, Peut Etre Theatre and Michael Keegan Dolan.
DEVELOPMENT MANAGER She/Her As part of the Development Team, my role focuses on delivering a broad range of fundraising activities that help support DanceEast's ambitious and impactful programmes. I relish the entrepreneurial spirit and agile approach fundraising demands. It's an honour to work for a charity committed to meeting local need and contributing to the national dance sector. Being based within the Jerwood DanceHouse means I get to see the productions, projects and workshops come to life - and change lives - which is truly inspiring. Since graduating in 2007, I have worked across arts curation and development in the UK and Asia, including co-founding an arts not-for-profit Pier Projects in Suffolk. Outside of work, I spend my time in the kitchen or by the sea.
Natasha developed her love for ballet and contemporary when growing up in the United Arab Emirates and Barbados. She moved to the USA where she obtained honours in both her BFA in Dance Performance & Choreography and BSc in Psychology, whilst also performing with the Towson Dance Company.
Originally from Middlesbrough in the North East of England Nathan Johnston graduated from London Contemporary Dance School in 2010. After first graduating he went on to work with Punchdrunk in ‘The Duchess of Malfi', in collaboration with English National Opera. In 2014, he began his circus career with Upswing Aerial as a hand-to-hand base, and is now an Associate Artist.
Nicky studied at the Northern Ballet School and then went onto further study at London Contemporary Dance School. She has performed with numerous companies covering a wide range of dance styles including Ballet, Contemporary, Flamenco, Physical Theatre and even Circus!
Job Titles:
- CENTRE for ADVANCED TRAINING OFFICER
CENTRE FOR ADVANCED TRAINING OFFICER She/They My career started with graduating from London Contemporary Dance School with 1st Class Honors. Since 2003, I have worked with many UK and European choreographers. I have had a longstanding relationship with the Henri Oguike Dance and Shobana Jeyasingh Dance, where I was given the chance to broaden my knowledge of dance through educational outreach work, workshop planning, mentoring, and rehearsal directing for companies. My outreach education covers amateurs, professionals, and anything in between; my passion for sharing the joy and creativity of movement has made it possible to tailor activities to suit all participants. I retired from performing in 2021, which initiated a desire to use my skills in other areas of dance to help others realise and achieve their full potential in the creative world. I am undertaking a BA Honors study in Art and Culture Management in HUMAK University of Applied Sciences, which is due to be completed in June 2026.
Noora Kala's career in dance started when she graduated from London Contemporary Dance School with a first-class honours degree. Since 2003, she has worked with many UK and European choreographers.
Paris is a movement artist specialising in Popping. She's an original member of powerhouse popping crew Fiya House and has recently become an Associate Artist at DanceEast of which she will begin to collaborate, build and create her own performance works. Paris' work is heavily influenced by social sciences, political activism and her relationship to nature. She is working on her first solo piece called Rewiring of which she premiered at Resolution 2022 and has expanded in her residency with Choreodrome 2022 at The Place. Not only is she creating professional works but she also dominates the battle scene in the HipHop community having represented and won for the UK globally.
Rachel Canavan graduated with a first class degree from Brighton University in Dance & Visual Art in 2003. In 2011, Rachel was funded by the Private Physiotherapy Education Foundation to train with the Mark Morris Dance Company in New York in Dance for Parkinson's to extend her research following her Masters degree.
Job Titles:
- CONTEMPORARY & CREATIVE TUTOR
Sarah began her dance training at the Miskin Theatre before attending Trinity Laban and receiving a BA and MA in dance performance (Transitions Dance Company).
After starting her 30-year career as an actor, Shreela held leadership positions in Dance, Visual Arts and Literature. She worked at Arts Council England, British Council and Esmee Fairbairn Foundation before going freelance and launching the Culture in Flux consultancy (2018/19). Shreela's independent projects include a governance review of Without Walls and a report for Leeds 2023 on the development of Black and Asian Theatre in Britain. She was Jury member for the 2020 International Dublin Literary Award and facilitates cross cultural understanding through working with the Charles Wallace India Trust.
Andrew Burke PIANIST A lifelong resident of Ipswich, Andrew studied at the Royal Academy of Music as a composer and pianist. Having retired from full-time employment in 2014 music is no longer a ‘spare time' activity, involving conducting, playing and arranging music, and - when the mood takes him (which it doesn't much these days) - composing. Locally he is involved principally with the Ipswich Operatic Society and Trianon Music Group. Until 2021 he was the Musical Director for the Ipswich Gilbert & Sullivan Society, having originally started playing the piano for them in 1986. Read more about Andrew Simon Doling PERCUSSIONIST From an early age, Simon has performed, released records and toured internationally. He has also worked as a sound engineer, producer, artist manager and event promoter. Read more about Simon
Job Titles:
- PRODUCER for CREATIVE HEALTH and COMMUNITIES
PRODUCER FOR CREATIVE HEALTH AND COMMUNITIES She/Her Dance was a huge part of my childhood. I studied Performing Arts and Psychology at Winchester University and over the last 10 years have worked in Arts Development for local government and managed a Community & Education programme for commercial theatres, but soon found myself drawn back into dance and combining all the things I love as a Producer here at DanceEast, developing programmes and projects that make a difference to our communities and spreading the joy of dance!
Job Titles:
- SALES & ADMIN ASSISTANT FINANCE ASSISTANT
I joined DanceEast in 2007 as a Front of House Assistant, so get to meet everyone whether attending a class, watching a performance, or performing. I also now work part time as Finance Assistant which gives a contrast to meeting people. I am delighted to be part of the wonderful team here at DanceEast!
Job Titles:
- CENTRE for ADVANCED TRAINING MANAGER
- PRODUCER for CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE
PRODUCER FOR CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE He/him If you'd told me when I was younger that I'd end up working in dance, I'd never have believed you! It wasn't until I had some brilliant dance teachers at high school that I fell in love with it. Fast forward to now, and I'm lucky enough to make dance into my career. After studying at the University of Roehampton (BA Dance Studies) and Trinity Laban (MA Dance Performance), I've worked in arts admin, project management, producing, and dance education at organisations including Northern School of Contemporary Dance and Trinity Laban. As producer for Children and Young People, I manage the Centre for Advanced Training (CAT) and oversee our schools' work, youth programmes, educational projects, and more! Supporting young people to develop their potential through dance is a privilege, and I'm proud to be part of the brilliant team at DanceEast. Read more
Tom studied BA (Hons) Dance Studies at the University of Roehampton and MA Dance Performance at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music & Dance (Transitions Dance Company). Tom's previous roles include Projects Manager in Learning & Participation at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music & Dance in London, Learning & Participation Coordinator and CAT Tutor at Northern School of Contemporary Dance in Leeds, and Company Director of Fylde Coast Youth Dance Company in Blackpool.
Job Titles:
- Choreographer
- CREATIVE TUTOR
Tom Hobden is a choreographer, educator, dance education consultant, mentor and co-artistic director of UNIT and has successfully been working in dance industry since 2002. He is regarded as a national leader in community dance practice and most known for his exceptional intergenerational performances and is ability to work with anyone.
Victoria Shulungu is a versatile dance performer, rehearsal director, teacher and producer. Victoria has a unique ability to support a creative process through her empathy, technical ability and attention to musical and rhythmical detail.
Xenoula trained at Northern School of Contemporary Dance, graduating in 1999. She has since danced, choreographed and taught with various companies and dance agencies in London including Tavaziva Dance, East London Dance, Random Dance, The Place, London Studio Centre and DanceEast.