DANCE 2004

Manchester Palace Theatre on Sunday 16 May
Liverpool Empire Theatre on Sunday 30 May

YOU have to love dance to do it, and this is reflected by the many and varied and excellent schools scattered throughout the UK, filled with eager and talented performers of all ages and abilities. We are trying to reach as many of these schools as possible, and it would ensure that the youngsters in your area do not miss out on this fabulous opportunity.

Sadly, there is a decided lack of competitive freestyle events in the region today. Most talent competitions are aimed at vocalists, and until ‘Dance 2004’ began in the millennium year there had not been a competition of this scale devoted totally to dance and theatre schools, judged by individuals who actually know about dance. Our panel of judges are all professionals in their own particular field, who really appreciate the time, patience and sheer endeavour it takes to choreograph a piece from start to finish.

After four very successful years at the Liverpool Empire Theatre – ‘Dance 2000’ (Principal Judge – Lionel Blair), ‘Dance 2001’ (Principal Judge – Wayne Sleep), ‘Dance 2002’ (Principal Judge – Bonnie Langford), ‘Dance 2003’ (Principal Judge – Sonia), the show was also produced for the first time in Manchester at the Manchester Palace Theatre last year, with Wayne Sleep acting as Principal Judge, and we are just awaiting confirmation that this year’s Principal Judges will be stars of TV and musical theatre Sam Kane for (Liverpool), and Paul Nicholas (for Manchester).

It is a fabulous opportunity for all dance and theatre schools from across the UK to come together to compete for the biggest trophies in the world of dance, and also work alongside many of the foremost names in the entertainment industry at some of the most prestigious theatres in the country. It is a great chance to be part of a wonderful evening and celebration of dance at its best.

Competing can be an enjoyable experience, and for those that have not yet taken part in any of our shows and events before, friendliness and goodwill are encouraged on every occasion, including competitive events. We learn from watching other people work, and I hope that ‘Dance 2004’ will inspire us all to improve ourselves artistically for the nest time we appear on stage.

Due to the competition’s popularity, all of the sections fill up very fast so it’s important for schools to register now if they would like to take part. 

Inquiries to:- Harlequin House, The Old Fire Station, Derby Lane, Old Swan, Liverpool, L13 6QA, or Tel or Fax: 0151 287 0947.

The Friend Ship Launched on the 10 March

THE Friend Ship is Liverpool’s new and exciting youth participation project is set sail on its maiden voyage, bound for every primary and special school in Liverpool.  40,000 school children will board the ship when it docks at their schools this year.

The youngsters will use their time on board to learn more about tolerance and diversity, faith and togetherness and Liverpool’s distinctive history, place in the world and exciting new future as a premier European city. 

The ship has been bought to life by local designer Jo Pocock and carries a cargo of treasure chests full of learning materials for interactive and engaging classroom activities.

Seven creative partners have joined forces for this unique project. They are; Liverpool City Council sports, Liverpool City Council’s libraries, Liverpool Empire, Liverpool’s Everyman and Playhouse, National Museums Liverpool, Tate Liverpool and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic.

Sailing under the flag of Faith in One City 2004, The Friend Ship will follow the successful course set by the Community Globe, which engaged Liverpool’s schoolchildren during the bid to become European Capital of Culture.

For further information about the Friend Ship visit www.liverpoolculture.com.