Last week at Brewery Arts, our stage was filled with the energy, creativity and confidence of young dancers as we celebrated 20 years of the Schools Dance Platform — a milestone that made this year’s event more meaningful than ever.
Over four inspiring days, schools from across the region came together to share work that had been developed over weeks and months, alongside performances from our in-house groups, Stage Stars and Brewery Youth Dance (BYD). From first-time performers to more experienced dancers, each piece was unique, expressive and told its own story. Across the week, dancers explored themes ranging from identity and belonging to climate change, science and the natural world, drawing inspiration from curriculum topics, literature and real-world issues.
More Than Just a Performance
The Schools Dance Platform has always been about more than performance. For two decades, it has provided a non-competitive, supportive space where young people can build confidence, develop their creativity and experience the joy of dance. This year, that spirit was stronger than ever. Recognised as a U.Dance First event, the platform supports young talent and helps create pathways into dance.
What stood out most across the week was the sense of community. Teachers supporting students, peers encouraging one another, and audiences celebrating every performance — the atmosphere was one of shared pride and joy.
Dance in the Classroom and Beyond
In the lead-up to the performances, many schools worked closely with a Brewery Arts Dance Artist to create their pieces. Through a series of workshops, students explored new techniques, developed movement material and built their confidence as performers. Many of the pieces were inspired by curriculum topics, highlighting how dance can be a powerful tool for learning, expression and storytelling within education.
As part of this celebratory year, we commissioned local filmmaker Josh Hawkins to create a special film capturing the journey behind the performances. The film offers insight into workshops led by Brewery Arts dance artists, school rehearsal processes, and the voices of the young dancers themselves — alongside school staff, dance artists and Brewery Arts event organisers. It provides a glimpse into the dedication, collaboration and creativity that takes place long before the curtain rises.
A Leader at the Heart of the Programme
At the heart of the Schools Dance Platform is a strong sense of continuity — embodied by Emily Davies, Brewery Arts’ Learning and Engagement Officer for Dance.
Local to Kendal, Emily began her journey as a young dancer with Brewery Youth Dance (BYD), building her skills, confidence and love for performance through the programme. Now returning as a facilitator, tutor and dance programme lead, Emily brings her experience full circle. Through her work, Emily continues the legacy of the Schools Dance Platform — nurturing the next generation of dancers and ensuring that the same opportunities she once experienced remain available to young people across the region.
20 Years in Numbers
Over the past two decades…
- More than 50 local schools have taken part in Brewery Arts Schools Dance Platform.
- Over 11,200 children and young people have stepped onto the stage.
- More than 900 original dance pieces have been created and performed in front of an audience.
- We have hosted more than 80 inspiring performance nights in our theatre.
20 Years in Their Own Words
“I performed here as a student myself (2002–09) in the same Dance Platform, and now I bring my own students to enjoy the experience.” — School Teacher
“Students who don’t usually take dance classes had such an amazing experience and have been inspired to take part in dance sessions and performances in the future.” — School Teacher
“We were blown away by the sheer joy of all the young people. Their teamwork, creativity and enthusiasm were wonderful to see.”— Audience/Family Member
“My favourite thing to see is young people conquering their worries and performing in front of an audience.” — Brewery Arts Dance Artist
“I have learnt creativity, dance techniques and teamwork.” – Young Dancer
“I most enjoyed performing because I get a feeling of satisfaction.” – Young Dancer
Join our Brewery Youth Dance Community!
If you’re a young dancer looking to build skills, create with friends and experience performing on stage, our Youth Dance Programme (ages 0–18) offers opportunities to grow, explore and be part of something special.
Our new summer season of Youth Dance is on sale 9 April, from 11am – find out more and book via our website here.
