Project title: New Connections
Where and when the project happened in Hertfordshire
Watford Museum. Ongoing weekly sessions since November 2013.
Describe your project briefly.
New Connections is a creative dance session for people aged 50 years and over. Led by Arts Development Officer Laura Horn, this group explore contemporary dance techniques with creative elements. Situated in the Space2 Gallery, the dancers learn and develop movements with creative tasks inspired by the current exhibition.
What were the aims of your project?
The session was initially set up a taster series to find dancers for a cross generational dance project. However, at the end of the taster period the participants were keen to continue.
What happened as a result of your project?
Since the Company formed, they have devised and performed four Dance pieces. These have been performed at DanceDigital showcases, Spring Blast and Summer Blast. The Company also performed at Watford Borough Council’s Big Dance event and The WW1 exhibition at Watford Museum. The Company have collaborated with Artist Alex McIntyre for a drawing residency, made a dance film with King Street Films and had a musical score composed and performed live for their piece titled ‘Adrift ‘ by Elliott Kendal.
What evidence did you produce to show your project’s impact?
The Dancers showcased their session content by making a film with King Street Images. This film explored the creative ethos behind the sessions and experiences of the dancers. No other formal evidence has been produced other than outcomes of performances.
What 2 tips would you offer to someone else running a similar project?
- Base your activity in a space that inspires you (and others)
- Allow participants time to get used to your way of working.
- Embrace the uniqueness of every participant and what they have to offer.
- Allow for social time after the session. This will create a bond between you and them. They will also benefit from the social interaction (sometimes more than the creative part!)
Contact details for more information:
Laura Horn, Arts Development Officer, Watford Borough Council - Laura.horn@watford.gov.uk; 01923 232297
If you have an Arts and Health project that you would like to share through Creative Hertfordshire, please go to http://www.creativehertfordshire.com/the-art-of-wellbeing/call-for-hertfordshire-arts-and-health-projects-to-showcase/
For more information visit http://www.watfordmuseum.org.uk/
News Location
Watford Museum
194 Lower High Street,
Watford,
Hertfordshire
WD17 2DT
Telephone: 01923 232 297
Email: laura.horn@watford.gov.uk
Website: http://www.watfordmuseum.org.uk/