Last week, freelance dance artist Becca Townsley brought her expertise to Bethany, where she led an inspiring and immersive workshop with a group of passionate Bethany dance pupils. The session centred around the theme of “bridges,” symbolising the idea of building and strengthening connections between people through movement.

Becca’s workshop aimed to convey how dance can serve as a powerful language for connection, encouraging pupils to reflect on how physical and emotional bridges can be created, crossed, and sustained in their art.

Throughout the workshop, pupils were introduced to a wide array of technical skills and foundational elements within contemporary dance. Becca focused on expanding their vocabulary, offering detailed guidance on technique, posture, and fluidity, helping them to enhance their precision, control, and expressive range. Working closely in small groups, pupils applied these techniques creatively, developing sequences that allowed them to explore innovative ways of making physical contact and experimenting with trust, weight-sharing, and coordinated balance.

In addition to refining their technical abilities, pupils discovered new approaches to teamwork and collaboration. By engaging in exercises that required them to rely on each other’s timing, strength, and support, they deepened their understanding of connection—not only in dance but as a broader concept of human interaction and shared effort. This experience went beyond physical training; it allowed pupils to gain insight into the importance of empathy, respect, and active listening within group work, essential skills both on and off the stage.

The workshop concluded with each group sharing their choreographed sequences, celebrating the bonds formed and ideas exchanged during the session. For all pupils, this was an invaluable opportunity to experiment, push personal boundaries, and celebrate the communal joy of dance.

Mrs Payne
Lead Teacher of Dance