Case Study: Empowering Individuals Through Supported Volunteering
On Wednesday 17 July 2019, Surrey residents came along to Camberley Theatre to witness a unique performance that celebrates diversity through creative dance.
The Surrey Choices Rhythmic Collision Dance Company and children from Cordwalles Junior School teamed up to create ‘Rhythm of Life IV’, an ensemble of dance choreography that explores important life issues like pride, love, change, family and friendship.
Helen-Louise Lampard, Senior Activities Facilitator at Rhythmic Collision Dance Company, said,
“Rhythm of Life IV not only celebrates the medium of dance and music, but also showcases the friendships that have flourished over the years between the school children and Surrey Choices customers. The children have gained invaluable experiences and have been given the opportunity to better understand the complexity of learning disabilities and inspired them to break down barriers within their own communities.”
The dancers were free to create their own contemporary style of dance both individually and in a supportive group environment. The project has helped the performers to understand the importance of teamwork, in addition to developing their self-esteem and improving their physical fitness and coordination.
Managing Director of Surrey Choices, Mette Le Jakobsen, said,
“It is incredibly exciting to see intergenerational work being delivered in such a creative and inclusive way. Surrey Choices is all about reaching out and working with local communities to bring about change and Rhythmic Collision and the children of Cordwalles Junior School have done just that.”
Sarah Nottrodt, Head Teacher at Cordwalles Junior School, said,
“Rhythm of Life gives our children the opportunity to understand that everybody is different and has their own challenges to overcome. This performance portrays that through dance and promotes our belief that there are no outsiders in our school. The children show kindness and compassion through their dance and develop skills that will stay with them throughout their lives.”
The evening was a huge success, with Rhythmic Collision and Cordwalles Students left with a standing ovation and resulting in an encore. We are so proud of everyone involved in this project, and look forward to the next of many performances.
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