A RECENTLY-formed group of inspiring dancers from Farnham took to the stage for a curtain raiser performance before Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella in Woking’s New Victoria Theatre.

The dancers, some of whom are in their seventies, performed an extract from a new piece of dance which has been created by the group.

Part of Farnham Maltings’ ‘My Shout’, a project which is using art to challenge perceptions of ageing, this was an inclusive opportunity for anyone in the local community aged 55 or over.

Working with New Adventures and taking inspiration from Cinderella, the dance is an authentic and sensitive performance which incorporates New Adventures narrative-style with the dancers’ own storytelling.

Creative workshops were not only movement based, but also included opportunity for the dancers to share their own research about the era, along with exploring themes of youthfulness, maturity, vitality and belonging.

One participant said: “It’s been magical – I can’t believe we got there! I am so glad I stepped out of my comfort zone to take part.” Another reflected on the reactions of others: “I think audiences were surprised by the energy, vitality and emotional impact of our piece.”

Gavin Stride, director for Farnham Maltings said: “My Shout has been about celebrating the positives about growing old. Hopefully we aren’t all going to end up sitting in wing back chairs waiting to die.

“We have tried to be mischievous and surprise ourselves with stories about what is possible and recognise that 19th century views of being old are woefully outdated.

“Many of the women in this piece had never danced before, learnt new skills and have created something new of the highest quality.”

Imogen Kinchin, executive director for New Adventures, said: “It has been a real joy to be involved in the Farnham Maltings’ My Shout project. The participants have created a piece that is a real testament to the way that New Adventures work.

“Led by our resident artist, Daisy May Kemp, and New Adventures practitioner, Luke Murphy, the women have done a brilliant job in conveying our signature style.

“Following fantastic performances at Dance in the Meadow and the Ignite Festival earlier this summer, we’re delighted that they are performing at the New Victoria Theatre in a curtain raiser before Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella.”

Other art created as part of My Shout includes interactive theatre, stone-carved benches and a short film to be released later this year.