Exploration, and collaboration are at the heart of Surface Area Dance Theatre CIC, a dance company based in Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. Their work extends across live and digital performances, interdisciplinary collaborations, and international cultural exchange.
Engagement is a key aspect of Surface Area Dance Theatre's work. They strive to create inclusive experiences that can be enjoyed by all, even those with sensory impairments. Through their workshops and performances, participants have expressed their delight in being able to engage with the vibrations and energy of the dance, regardless of their visual capabilities. The company's commitment to accessibility is exemplified in their production, “Behind the Face of a Rock, Throwing Stones”, which was enjoyed by a deaf-blind person who felt included and connected to the performance alongside everyone else.
Collaboration is central to Surface Area Dance Theatre's creative process. They actively seek collaborations with artists, participants, and academics to develop a unique dance language that celebrates diversity and fosters innovation. Their partnerships and engagements extend to reputable institutions such as Barbican's Open Lab in London, Michael Cacoyannis Foundation in Athens, and the Ise Folk Dance Society in Japan. These collaborations enable the company to expand their artistic horizons and push the boundaries of their practise.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) are fundamental values for Surface Area Dance Theatre. They are committed to challenging assumptions, biases, and prejudices while promoting a deep sense of trust and mutual respect. The company believes in nurturing a sense of belonging for all employees and participants, regardless of their background or attributes. Their dedication to EDI has earned them recognition from the Department of Work and Pensions as a Disability Leader and champion for Disability Confidence within their local and business communities.
Surface Area Dance Theatre's impact extends beyond the stage. Their work in Disability Arts has prompted artists to explore new ways of creating art that is accessible and inclusive. By collaborating with Deaf choreographers and musicians, they have pushed the boundaries of their own artistic practise and created performances that can be experienced not only audibly but also physically, through low-frequency sound that can be felt.
Surface Area Dance Theatre is composed of a passionate team that maintains communication channels in English and British Sign Language to facilitate discourse with the D/deaf and hearing community. Their resources support ongoing investigation, exploration, and collaboration, fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment for artistic growth and development.
Get in touch with Surface Area Dance Theatre to experience their captivating performances, engage in workshops, and contribute to the rich tapestry of interdisciplinary collaborations that drive their work.