Age 16-18
Student Kian Crowley has been selected from over 200 auditionees across the country to join the UK’s flagship National Youth Dance Company of England (NYDC).
Kian, who is studying Performing and Production Arts at New City College, Ardleigh Green campus in Hornchurch, was one of just eight male and 13 female dancers chosen to join NYDC and work with Guest Artistic Director Alesandra Seutin.
He was delighted to find out about his selection and is looking forward to the residency training session, which is hoped will take place in April with social distancing – government restrictions permitting.
Kian, who lives in Hornchurch, said: “I love performing for audiences as well as teaching dance, so to get this opportunity was amazing. It is a passion of mine and I hope in the future to become a dance teacher and share my love for dance.”
He added: “I started dancing when I was eight years old and haven’ stopped! I specialise in Ballroom and Latin and I have won gold and silver medals in the London Youth Games and the Havering Games. I was also presented with a Jack Petchey award for helping at a dance club for young children and for going into primary schools and running dance workshops.”
The NYDC has established a reputation for innovative, high quality work, inspiring young dancers and giving them an insight into the profession unlike any other. The dancers work towards achieving a Gold Arts Award ? a nationally recognised qualification accredited by Trinity College.
College Dance Lecturer Jo Leahy said: “We’re extremely proud of Kian getting a place in the National Youth Dance Company. It’s a massive achievement as competition is really tough and he is one of only eight boys selected nationally.”
Once Kian has completed the intensive training, he will hopefully be taking part in a National Tour across the UK during weekends in the summer, including a performance at Sadler’s Wells Mainstage.
