From high-energy jazz numbers to emotionally charged contemporary pieces and elegant ballet, the evening offered a vibrant showcase of student talent and creativity, set to a soundtrack of well-known songs across multiple genres. The performances reflected not only exceptional dance technique but also remarkable choreographic vision, with several routines choreographed by the students themselves.
These original works highlighted the students’ artistic maturity and technical understanding, as they took charge of staging, lighting, and backdrop design—truly embodying the role of creative directors as well as performers.
Gillian Desjacques, Curriculum and Quality Leader for Dance, praised the dedication of both students and staff:
“Our innovative, talented staff have excelled themselves this year. We are truly fortunate to have such a committed teaching team, tirelessly developing our brilliant young students throughout a rich curriculum of NC, HNC and HND courses.
All of the performances were outstanding and a true testament to the dedication and talent of each of our students.
‘The event is of course tinged with a little sadness knowing that our HNDs are leaving to carve out the next stage in their careers. We shall miss them terribly but wish them well as they go on to institutes like the Royal Scottish Conservatoire, Shock Out, Italia Conti, London Studio Centre and Wilkes Academy to name but a few.
It’s been a privilege to be part of what we know is an exciting and successful career for our dancers.
Among the standout pieces were:
The Witches, choreographed by Olivia Beeby:
“This is the first time that I’ve done anything like this.
It’s amazing to see how the theatre setting brings it all to life.
'I’m going on to Wilkes Academy to study Musical Theatre. It’s emotional to think it’s all coming to an end – it’s gone too fast. I love West.”
By Order of…, a jazz-funk piece choreographed by Sophie Elliot:
“The piece begins with musical theatre-style characterisation, then transitions into a commercial dance inspired by the Peaky Blinders’ Shelby family.
Before college, I didn’t know much about the technical side of choreography, like lighting. I’ve grown so much.
I’m heading to Shockout Arts in Manchester – but I’ll miss this place. The friendships I’ve made here are for life.”
When the Wind Blows, a contemporary piece choreographed by Beth Campbell:
“This piece is based on a short film about a couple living in blissful ignorance of a looming nuclear bomb. It captures the moment it hits and changes their world forever.
It’s been both exciting and daunting to be in full creative control. I’m so proud of all the dancers.
I’ll be continuing my training at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.
My time at West has been a whirlwind – I’ve made friends for life and being part of this group has made everything better.
As the curtain falls on another successful year, Dance Fusion leaves no doubt that the future of dance is in safe, talented hands.
West continues to nurture the next generation of performers, choreographers, and creative visionaries.
Find out more about our Dance courses here.
