Youth-led dance festival returns to Jerwood DanceHouse this weekend

The big picture: The free festival at Jerwood DanceHouse reflects a growing movement to put young people at the helm of cultural events, with the organisers bringing fresh perspectives on how to engage their peers through dance.

Why it matters: The event aims to break down barriers around dance, welcoming both experienced performers and those who've never tried it before.

The details:

• The festival takes place on Saturday 9 November from 13:00 to 17:00.

• Activities include yoga, contemporary dance, Bollywood and jazz commercial fusion workshops.

• The programme features innovative elements like wearable interactive sound sessions where movements generate music.

• Creative workshops include movement drawing, costume styling and a community art gallery.

DanceEast YouthFest 2024

A free afternoon celebrating dance and movement, organised by young people for young people. No dance experience needed.

• Performing & Visual Arts
• 9 November
• 13:00-17:00

Behind the scenes: The festival is being shaped by four young leaders with diverse backgrounds:

• Millie Powell, a DanceEast Centre for Advanced Training alumna and BA Dance graduate

• Marni Cady-Heffer, a BA Dance graduate and Boost Bursary recipient

• Cara Storer, a Fine Art and Art History graduate

• Faith Foster, an A Level Dance student at Suffolk One

What they're saying: "Being a part of YouthFest has already allowed me to learn so many things such as administrative, planning, and management skills," says Marni Cady-Heffer. "What is amazing about this opportunity is that the festival is run and created by young people."

The bottom line: The organisers hope to create what Millie Powell calls "a greater community of dance lovers" among young people in Ipswich, emphasising that there will be "something for everyone."