Empowering young people through African and Caribbean dance, developing creativity, confidence and cultural appreciation.
About the show
GROUNDATION – Dancing from the Archives brings together a collection of West African traditional dances and Caribbean folk dances that represent social and ritual functions. These dances are the foundation of the movement language/style of IRIE! Dance Theatre. GROUNDATION will communicate the nuances and storytelling traditions that are continually echoed in African and Caribbean culture. The movement of this new generation of performers combined with live drumming, percussion and songs will demonstrate the resilience, beauty and energy in dance of the African Diaspora.
Key Stage / Year Groups:
- Reception, Key Stage 1, Key Stage 2, SEND
SEND Show Adaptations:
-
Smaller session, smaller group sizes, quieter and less stimulating environments, sensory exploration activities, additional breaks.
Relevant areas of the National Curriculum:
- PE
- English
- History
- PSHE
- Art and design
- Music
About the pupil workshops
Pupils will be introduced to the rich traditions of West African and Caribbean folk dance, exploring stories, rhythms and cultural heritage through movement. The workshop will explore how movement connects to rhythm, storytelling and identity, developing physical skills, coordination and self-expression. Using a selected repertoire from GROUNDATION the workshop will teach African and Caribbean dance vocabulary and guide pupils through improvisation. The workshop will end with a shared performance and reflection as a group.
Workshop SEND adaptations:
- Sessions can be shorter with regular breaks, use sensory props and provide quieter or calmer moments.
Teacher twilight CPD
Our CPD session introduces participants to the GROUNDATION approach to African and Caribbean dance. The session begins with a brief introduction, providing cultural context, aims, and key principles. The warm-up aims to develop an understanding of rhythms, coordination, and embodied awareness.
Participants then learn movement language or selected repertoire from GROUNDATION, exploring authentic African and Caribbean dance vocabulary. Through creative exploration, they respond to guided improvisation tasks, developing confidence and personal expression. The session concludes with practice and sharing, where participants refine movement, perform collaboratively, and reflect on learning, application, and inclusive teaching strategies.
This CPD can accommodate from 5 to 12 members of staff.
About IRIE!
IRIE! dance theatre is Britain’s leading dance theatre company specialising in African and Caribbean fusion. Founded by Beverley Glean in 1985, IRIE! promotes the visibility of dance of the African Diaspora through innovative performances that celebrate African and Caribbean heritage, exploring the richness of the Black British cultural experience.
