Big Thank You to H.A. Marks Construction

Connectingvibes would like to say a big ‘Thank You’ to H.A. Marks Construction for their recent donation and renewed support. Connectingvibes* is currently the touring company of Year 3 students on the BA(Hons) Diverse Dance Styles delivered by IRIE! dance theatre. Alumni continue to work with the company as they develop their skills as choreographers, rehearsal directors and teachers on the education programme. The company provides opportunities for artists at the beginning of their career, through the experience of a touring dance company.

H.A Marks have been a generous friend to the company since 2013, supporting the company’s performance venture to Grenada alongside successive touring programmes, including workshops to enhance the performance programme.

This year they are supporting the company’s production of ‘Not Talking….’ alongside its companion solo piece ‘Shifting Conversations ’ by alumni and MA student Aaliyah Dawkins.

Aaliyah was a member of connectingvibes from 2022- 2024. Returning as an MA student Aaliyah has had the opportunity to develop her own work while acting as a rehearsal director for ‘Not Talking….’ Her skills have been much appreciated, demonstrating the growth that the company can provide for developing artists. Aaliyah is currently making a film version of the piece.

‘Not Talking... ‘was created collaboratively with the company members, Rosie Lehan and

Ni Kwartey Owoo, inspired by an original idea by Eszter Ivan, (student counsellor for the BA /MA programmes at IRIE! dance theatre) around the dangers of not being able to express yourself. The company have worked closely together using stories and shared histories as a foundation, integrating film and text to enhance the meaning of the work.

The company have performed the programme in London and Liverpool with excerpts used for workshops for young people and elders, ideas for the piece are constantly being developed.

We are grateful to H.A Marks for giving the young artists of Connectingvibes opportunities for mentorship and development as they consider their career pathways.

Being part of connectingvbes and performing in ‘Not Talking…’ has been a deeply meaningful experience for me, enabling me to connect with a powerful community of artists. The process has strengthened my confidence as a performer, and I am grateful to be part of the work. Deny Ruge Prado – member 25-26

I have been a part of Connectingvibes as both a dancer and a rehearsal director. Each role has been equally valuable, and both experiences have shaped me as an artist both in my choreographic practice and performance journey. I am very grateful to have had these opportunities and experiences.

Kaia China- Sawyer member 22-24 – rehearsal director/choreographer 25- ongoing

Thank You !

Rosie Lehan

Co-Director Connectingvibes