Dance House

Glasgow's answer to Dance Base!

Feature by Gareth K Vile | 28 Aug 2008

Since its inception in 1998, Dance House has offered classes for adults, creative residencies for choreographers, and developed community performances, such as 2000’s Carmina Burana. The dynamic team of Administrative Director Sheila McCubbin and Creative Director Karen Wood have consistently supported the growth of Glasgow’s vibrant dance scene.

At the start of the teaching term, Karen Wood admits pride at the new classes. “Bollywood, Shiatsu Bodywork and the Butoh workshops all extend the range of practices that we offer. As the boundaries between dance forms blurs, we are reflecting this in our programme.”

Dance House offers a wide range, from classical ballet through contemporary, to burlesque. All levels of ability are welcomed: Dance House has an equal commitment to community and professional work.

The Creative Labs are residencies for artists, culminating with informal performances. This term, the labs include Flamenco, hip-hop with Tony “the Tiger” Mills and Brian Hartley’s Wee Dance, Wee Groove, an interactive activity for kids. Caroline Bowditch, Scottish Dance Theatre’s Agent for Change will also be visiting. Karen points out, “The programme is as varied and diverse as ever! It is always a treat to share in the early stages of new ideas and work emerging.” The Dance for Film Training, with Douglas Rosenberg, reveals this enthusiasm for new media.

Studies demonstrate that participation in the arts is more therapeutic and supportive than either watching performances or taking some medication. Until the NHS puts Butoh Workshops on prescription, Dance House is offering a healthy alternative.

http://www.dancehouse.org