Silversmith completed an introductory R&D for a potential new project called Disco Babies over the Summer (check out previous posts for details), culminating in a sharing for a select audience. It was clear from the feedback that the project definitely has legs, so planning and funding applications to run another R&D project with a more specific direction and outcome was set in motion.
After a couple of unsuccessful applications we were finally awarded funding by the Arts Council in the form of a Grant for the Arts, and Al Zaytouna Dance Theatre also contributed to the pot!
We also had to hold a last minute audition to find 3 new dancers for the project. After sifting through 72 applications and auditioning 18 highly skilled performers, we now have 5 talented dancers in the studio.
Project synopsis:
Inspired by Channel 4’s documentary ‘Strictly Baby Disco’, Disco Babies explores the competitive world of children’s free-style disco dancing. Drawing from Lorraine Smith’s (Artistic Director of Silversmith Dance Theatre) personal experiences and research, Disco Babies will explore the themes of pressure, failure, child-parent relationships and friendship.
The Team:
Director/choreographer: Lorraine Smith
Project Manager: Charelle Griffith
Performers: Gina Biggs, Siobhan Kerry, Morena Leonardis, Chris Mead, Lauren Okadigbo
Music: Patrick Furness
Filmmaker: Will Huntley
L to R: Siobhan, Gina, Lauren, Morena & Chris.
Silversmith Dance Theatre 
Happy bunch of Disco Baby’s 😉 Looking forward to the sharing of the work!
100% looking forward to this. The approach this time has some what changed from the original R&D project, leading to exciting new ideas, sections and path for characterization and performance. The material is very intriguing and often takes you to area’s you didn’t think you would go.