Ballet Queer Dance workshop

The History of You- Movement Workshop by Ballet Queer

Workshop 1 – Open to all

Workshop 2 – LGBTQ+ identifying

This unique workshop offers the chance to explore movement, identity, and community in a safe and welcoming space - no formal dance training needed.

Using informal ballet practice, guided movement, and open dialogue, you will reflect on your own Identity and experiences. Led by Jonathan Watkins (former Royal Ballet dancer, choreographer, and Ballet Queer founder) and Araminta Wraith (Scottish Ballet, RADA) the session will be about self-expression and shared storytelling through dance.

“So beautiful to get permission to move freely again—particularly in community, in a time when we need community more than ever"

— Feedback from a previous participant

What to Expect- The workshop will include a warm-up and opportunities to interact and talk with other participants. You’ll be given different improvisation exercises, listen to music, and explore ways to respond to music with movement. The workshop is really a way for you to be inspired by your own experiences and move your body.

Access for All - Jonathan and Araminta are experienced in adapting practical workshops to be available and accessible to all bodies, including participants who are disabled and chronically ill.

Jonathan Watkins is an Award-Winning Choreographer and Director from Barnsley, South Yorkshire. He created the ballet adaptation of George Orwell’s 1984 for Northern Ballet (Winner of Southbank Sky Arts Award for best dance production), Kes Reimagined for BBC FOUR and the stage play adaptation of Reasons To Stay Alive by Matt Haig For Sheffield Theatres and English Touring Theatre. He is the Artistic Director of Ballet Queer, the U.K.’s first LGBTQ+ ballet company that makes authentic work representing Queer identities and experiences. www.jonathan-watkins.com

Araminta Wraith is a multidisciplinary artist who combines dance and movement with traditional theatre storytelling. After 14 years as a soloist with Scottish Ballet and English National Ballet, she moved towards acting and facilitation. Upon graduating from RADA in 2022, she received ACE funding for movement and theatre practice in theatre making, alongside facilitating workshops, focusing on female-identifying people living with addictions.

Michael Peter Johnson is a London-based producer and cultural worker with over a decade of experience spanning dance, theatre, live performance, fashion, and film.

Ballet Queer is the UK’s first LGBTQ+ ballet company, creating authentic work that represents Queer identities and experiences and showcasing the talents of LGBTQ+ artists and allies. www.balletqueer.com