The 2024 Dorothy Stringer Dance Show brought yet another spectacular evening of creativity, talent, and passion from the students of Dorothy Stringer School. Held at the Brighton Dome on a single, highly anticipated Saturday performance, the show featured a diverse range of dance styles and choreography that captivated the audience from start to finish. The Let’s Dance event, had taken place earlier that week, adding to the excitement and creating a full, vibrant atmosphere at the Dome.
The combination of Let’s Dance and the Dorothy Stringer Dance Show made for a long and busy week, but the energy from both events was palpable. Each performance was a testament to the dedication and hard work of the students and staff, making the night an unforgettable celebration of movement and expression.
A Night of Showstopping Performances
The 2024 show opened with the powerful and dynamic number “Insomnia”, performed by a selection of dancers from various pieces. This high-energy performance set the tone for an evening of impressive choreography and captivating storytelling.
Some of the standout performances from the first half included:
• “Cascade” – This beautiful and graceful ballet piece, performed by the Ballet Club, was set to a hauntingly emotional soundtrack. The dancers showcased their technical abilities with fluid movements that mirrored the delicate yet powerful nature of water cascading.
• “Grief” – Choreographed by Esme Guilford, this poignant piece explored the complex emotions of grief, inspired by Frida Kahlo’s painting Henry Ford Hospital. The dancers conveyed the emotional depth of the subject matter with raw and expressive movements, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.
• “Lean on Me” – This heartfelt performance, choreographed by Stella Austin, Lana Berry, Evie Marten, and Ellie McKenna, was a beautiful tribute to the power of friendship and support. The dancers’ movements reflected the strength found in leaning on one another during challenging times.
The first half concluded with a lively and joyful performance from the Lower Jazz Club, bringing smiles to the faces of the audience and setting up anticipation for the second half.
Dynamic and Thought-Provoking Performances
The second half of the show continued to deliver a mix of high-energy routines and emotionally charged pieces, demonstrating the versatility and range of the students.
Notable performances from the second half included:
• “Tidal” – This piece, choreographed by Betsy De Broekert, Matilda Lewis, and Daisy Mortensen, explored the ebb and flow of emotions, drawing parallels with the natural movements of the ocean. The dancers’ graceful and fluid choreography mesmerized the audience, reflecting the unpredictability and strength of tidal forces.
• “Yin & Yang” – A beautifully choreographed GCSE piece, this performance explored the duality of opposites—light and dark, strength and vulnerability. The dancers performed with precision and grace, capturing the balance and tension between opposing forces.
• “Off With Her Head!” – Performed by the Upper Commercial Club, this high-energy routine brought a fierce and powerful interpretation to the stage. With bold movements and dynamic choreography, the dancers delivered a commanding performance that captivated the audience.
The night culminated in the traditional Leavers’ Bows, as the Year 11 students took their final bow on stage to “Murder on the Dance Floor” by Sophie Ellis-Bextor. This moment was both celebratory and bittersweet, as the leavers reflected on their time at Dorothy Stringer and their final performance in the show. The entire cast joined them on stage, bringing the night to a rousing and joyful close.
The excitement from Let’s Dance earlier in the week added a vibrant backdrop to the Dorothy Stringer performances, making the week even more memorable. You can learn more about Let’s Dance 2024 here.
DIRECTOR:
Chloe Sampson
CHOREOGRAPHERS:
Chloe Sampson, Ellie Bishop-Williams & Amy Fitzgerald
STAGE MANAGERS:
Katie Booth, Paul Watson, James Gill & Natalka Leszniwskyj
COSTUMES/PROPS:
Chloe Sampson
LIGHTING/SOUND:
Dome staff
LIGHTING DESIGN:
Chloe Sampson, Ellie Bishop-Williams & Amy Fitzgerald
FILMING & PHOTOGRAPHY:
Charlie Mansfield-Osborne
BACKSTAGE: PE staff & DSS Staff; 2022 & 2023 Dance
cohort students
ADMINISTRATION/ORDERS:
Sarah Norris
COMMUNICATIONS:
Julie Andre, Katie Booth, Erin Brown, Mel Chrisp, Bubbles Robinson & Livvi Stoner
TICKET SALES:
Brighton Dome Box Office
POSTER/PROGRAMME DESIGN:
Malcolm Kemp
Behind the Scenes
As always, the success of the 2024 Dorothy Stringer Dance Show was made possible by the hard work and dedication of the backstage crew and technical team. The support of the Brighton Dome staff, who provided expert lighting and sound, was invaluable in bringing each performance to life.
The contributions of the Dorothy Stringer School staff, parents, and carers were also essential in making the event possible. Their dedication and support throughout the rehearsal process ensured that the students could perform to the best of their abilities, delivering a show that was both professional and heartfelt.
Special Thanks
Director Chloe Sampson extended her deepest thanks to everyone involved in making the 2024 show such a success. Special recognition was given to the Brighton Dome staff for their technical expertise, as well as to the parents for their ongoing encouragement and assistance. Above all, the students were commended for their hard work, enthusiasm, and passion, which were evident in every performance.
Order Your 2024 DVD, Blu-ray, or USB Drive
Relive every moment of the 2024 Dorothy Stringer Dance Show by ordering the official 2024 DVD, Blu-ray, or USB drive. These high-quality recordings capture all the performances from the night, allowing you to enjoy the show again and again. Don’t miss out—order your copy today and take home a piece of this incredible night.
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