The new part-time post will focus on the development and delivery of EFDSS’ Dance Development Programme which will take place across England, aiming to support the flourishing of all forms of English folk dance – with a particular focus on social folk dance (including country dance, ceilidhs, barn dancing and Playford-style dancing).
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Laura has been performing for almost a decade with the Demon Barbers, a nationally acclaimed folk band who founded the combination of traditional English dance with contemporary dance styles. Laura’s talent for dancing and teaching was featured on BBC4’s popular documentary “Come Clog Dancing”.Laura Connolly is one of a handful of professional folk dance artists and teachers working in England. She is highly respected as a top-class clog dancer and committed educator. As a freelance dance practitioner, tutor and mentor, Laura has worked with a range of organisations including: Sage Gateshead; EFDSS - The Full English; Sowerby Music; East London Dance; Sightlines Initiative; Newcastle University’s Folk and Traditional Music Degree Course and Beamish Museum. |
Laura has recently been selected as one of 20 teachers to take part in the Dance Teaching Mentoring Programme 2015-2016 run by Dance UK, in partnership with the National Dance Teachers Association (NDTA), Youth Dance England and Dancers’ Career Development with funding from Arts Council England.
“As an advocate for folk dance, being given the role of Dance Development Manager is really exciting, I’m looking forward to encompassing my skills in the Arts, Education and Heritage with my passion for dance.”
Laura Connolly, Dance Development Manager
“We are very excited to have Laura on board for this new post to lead on EFDSS’ dance development from grass roots activities through to professional development.”
Katy Spicer, Chief Executive
The post of EFDSS Dance Development Manager is funded by a generous legacy.
Laura Connolly can be contacted via email: [email protected]
EFDSS is delighted to be presenting the following dance events this autumn:
Workshop at National Dance Teachers Association Conference, Saturday 28 November, Trinity Laban
Playford dancing at Pepys Show: Late, Party Like It’s 1669, 26 November, National Maritime Museum
