AN ambitious dance performance will see 100 youngsters portray the history of Lakeland life.
The show this weekend aims to "bring to life the memories of Fell Foot" by interpreting the Victorian country park through the medium of dance.
South Cumbria Dance Partnership, comprising DARE Dance, the Brewery Arts Centre and the National Trust at Fell Foot will bring together children and young People aged six to 18, from across South Cumbria, in an original, site-specific production called Now and Then, on the site of the historic house on the shores of Windermere on Saturday.
Led by artistic director Amanda Mortlock, local dancers Ellen Turner, Zanna Dennis and Emma Hayes have been leading weekly inspirational dance classes in Barrow and Kendal, as well as working with the cast on the site.
The performance represents what has changed over generations of animals and people who have made Fell Foot their home. Part of the show is based around the present day swans, as well as hunting hounds, while another section looks at the changing roles of men and women throughout the centuries of life at Fell Foot, inspired by the chess game on site.
DARE Dance artistic director Amanda Mortlock said: " Now and Then is a spectacular project bringing together 100 children and young people from diverse backgrounds with a common love of dance.
"They have learned about the history of Fell Foot and have created their own dances to express the elements of
Fell Foot’s history which captivated their imagination. It is an honest fusion of art and heritage."
The Youth Dance Ambassador Group at DARE have been documenting the process of the project with interviews, images, videos and blogs, which are available on its social media sites.
The project has also received the support of Arts Council England, Cumbria Community Foundation and Sir Francis C Scott Charitable Trust.
Liz Critchley, of the National Trust added: “The team at Fell Foot are very excited to welcome all the dancers involved in the Now and Then project and look forward to seeing the heritage of the site interpreted through their performance. “
The performances take place on the Fell Foot estate on Saturday at 1pm and 2pm.
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