In an exciting new chapter for the UK dance scene, MOVE IT and CYD? — two of the country’s most renowned dance events — have come together to collaborate and to create a more inclusive, vibrant and dynamic future for the industry. Their mission? To help dancers everywhere reach their full potential while celebrating the positive impact both events and their teams bring to the community.
Dance Informa caught up with CEO and Founder Tom Shilcock from CYD?, and MOVE IT Marketing and Programming Manager Kelsey Boyd, to learn more about what’s to come from this exciting collaboration.
CYD? & MOVE IT, this is such an exciting time! The dance community is buzzing with excitement over this news. When the announcement and giveaway post went live on Instagram, it received 2,948 likes, generated 7,458 comments, and was shared 780 times. What do you think has contributed to such an overwhelming response?
“As the two leading brands in the dance community, our collaboration sparked excitement among our dedicated fans. The post resonated with the community’s spirit of unity. One fan commented, ‘It demonstrates that those who want the best for the dance world will work together, not in competition.’ This is exactly why we did it — coming together to work for the greater good of the dance community, not against each other.”
Can you tell us how MOVE IT and CYD? decided to unite strengths and what inspired this collaboration?
“As two-much loved and unique events in the annual dance calendar, this collaboration encourages audiences to experience and appreciate the diversity of each other’s shows. We believe in collaboration to make way for a brighter, more vibrant, inclusive dance industry.”
What are the main goals of this alliance?
“Our primary goal is to promote diversity and inclusion across both events. We want to offer dancers, artists, and exhibitors more opportunities to engage and grow all year round. By hosting two significant events separately, we can raise awareness of the dance industry, highlight career opportunities, and help strengthen the dance community as a whole. Together, we’re creating a bigger platform for dance to thrive.”
How do you envision supporting dancers in reaching their full potential through this collaboration?
“Through this collaboration, we’re providing dancers with multiple opportunities to explore, train and network with top choreographers and industry professionals. By hosting two huge events every year, we fuel their growth and development. Through awards, scholarships and innovative collaborations, we’re committed to elevating creativity, choreography and connection within the dance world.”
What do you think makes this collaboration between MOVE IT and CYD? so appealing to the dance community?
“The appeal lies in the power of collaboration. In a sector often divided by genre and style, we’re showing that whether you’re an individual teacher, a global dance brand or a professional dancer, we all share a commitment to promoting the transformative power of dance. This partnership is about coming together to inspire, educate and uplift the next generation of dancers, providing them with more opportunities to showcase their talents.”
Can you share any insights on the types of experiences or opportunities dancers can expect from this collaboration?
“Looking ahead to our 2024 and 2025 events, dancers can expect a range of exciting experiences, from workshops with industry professionals to opportunities to perform and showcase their talents. We’re also introducing awards at both events to recognize and celebrate dancers’ achievements. With more networking, more exposure and more opportunities for training and development, dancers will have the chance to really hone their craft and make valuable connections in the dance world.”
How do you measure the impact of initiatives like this on the dance community as a whole?
“We measure the impact by actively listening to our artists, audiences and exhibitors. We want to ensure that every initiative we roll out continues to evolve to better serve the community. It’s an ongoing process of learning and adapting, and we’re incredibly excited about where this collaboration is headed. The feedback we’ve already received from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, and it’s just the beginning.”
What are your hopes for the future of the dance industry as a result of this collaboration?
“Our hope is that this partnership will elevate the presence of dance in education, enhance creativity across all dance styles, and provide dancers with better access to training, career opportunities and industry knowledge. We want to create an ecosystem where dancers can thrive, feel supported and be empowered to pursue their passion on a global scale.”
How can dancers and fans get involved in the upcoming events or initiatives?
“We’re incredibly excited about what’s to come! With MOVE IT celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2025, and CYD? hosting a range of regional events, a Teachers Convention, a Summer Intensive with the Joffrey Ballet School, and the flagship CYD? Super Convention, there are plenty of ways for dancers to get involved. To stay updated, follow us on Instagram @moveitshow and @cyd_uk, or visit our websites: www.canyoudancelive.com and www.moveitdance.co.uk. We can’t wait to see everyone there!”
By Renata Ogayar of Dance Informa.
