An intensive workshop with International guest Michael Joseph (UK). Hosted by Contact Dance Company
Francesca Abela Tranter (Artistic Director of the CONTACT DANCE COMPANY) is once again hosting an international guest for an intensive dance workshop. Michael Joseph - Assisitant Artistic Director for Union Dance Company (UK) will be conducting the workshops at the Dance Workshop premises at the National Pool in July.
Francesca and Michael have collaborated several times and have formed a mutual interesting network of dance. Michael trained at the Rambert School of Dance, after which he worked extensively as a dancer with the English National Opera and also appeared in numerous TV and video productions. He has performed with Bunty Mathias's Harlemation Dance Company and Doug Elkins Dance Company at the Riverside Studios in London. In 1998 Michael was a recipient of the Arts Council Dance for Camera Traineeship Award and worked on two films, specifically focusing on dance cinematography.
In 1997, Michael choreographed for Union Dance's production of Dance Tek Warriors (inspired by the Play Station revolution) and created a work for Nubian Steps at the South Bank Centre. Michael has made a major contribution to Union Dance with creative video work in LifeForms and choreography for Dance in House. He teaches and choreographs extensively for Union Dance both nationally and internationally.
In Spring 2003 Michael choreographed for The Mission and created a number of works for Union Too, Union Dance Youth Company. In Summer 2003, he performed and taught for Union Dance in Barcelona at Dies De Dansa XII. 2004 saw a return to Barcelona and numerous performances with Union Dance. He co-choreographed a new work for the Company commissioned by The Henley Festival of Music and The Arts, which was performed on the River Thames in July 2004. Michael also choreographed “Are you right, and I'm wrong?” for Contact Dance Company in Malta 2004 which has since been performed extensively throughout Europe. He recently choreographed for Union Too at National Portrait Gallery and V&A Couture Fund Raising event.
Michael's educational work aims to respond to the influences, energy and aspirations embedded in youth culture. The workshops provide a unique chance for young people to learn new and relevant skills which reflect their cultural experience. The style appeals to young and new audiences and derives from the cutting edge fusion of dance styles and the integration of digital technology.
He responds to the needs of each individual group, tailoring each event to meet their needs in relation to level of experience and ability. He contributes a wealth of professional performing and teaching experience and is an excellent role model for young people.
In addition the workshops will be based upon contemporary dance, taster sessions in acro yoga, fundamental partner work and working dance for camera in choreography which may lead to a short in house performance on the last day of the workshops, he has conducted many demonstrations, post performance talks and dance and film residencies globally, so will be available for any advice with regards to dance related subjects.
He will be collaborating once again with local Contact Dance Company, on an on going project which Francesca Abela Tranter has been working on for a year.
This is a new piece which is related to dance in space and music construction and computer design installation. Present company dancers Rachel Grech, Yasmine Nuvoli, Florinda Camilleri, Anna skorout, Francesca Vassallo and Diane Cachia have been contributing to this new work.
Interested participants for the summer intensive course for more information can contact [email protected]