Emerging disabled choreographer to shadow creation process of Motionhouse's next major touring production

Dance-circus company Motionhouse has announced that disabled choreographer Sander Verbeek is shadowing Artistic Director Kevin Finnan and Assistant Director Daniel Massarella during the creation of Hidden, the company’s next touring production that will premiere at Warwick Arts Centre in February 2025 and then tour extensively across the UK and Europe.

Sander will be mentored and supported by both Kevin and Daniel, helping him to gain unique insight into how the different aspects of a touring production come together before Hidden embarks on its extensive national and international tour. He will follow the process throughout creation from November to the end of January and also attend final technical and dress runs as the production moves from rehearsal to premiere.

Sander Verbeek: “I was interested in joining Motionhouse because I was looking to shadow a choreographer and was creating ways in which maybe I could. When Motionhouse put out this opportunity I knew I had to go for it, no matter the distance. Opportunities like this don't often come around for disabled artists and this is a step towards bridging the gap that exists for disabled dancers and choreographers. I'm privileged I can travel the distance I need to make it work.

I look forward to getting to know everyone and finding out what the company is all about. I want to really get to know Kevin's vision; how he works and creates. I'm going in with the idea that I can ask anything, and I am keen and focused on not leaving any questions unanswered. My eyes and ears will be open, and I'll be doing my best impression of a sponge and soak it all up. I hope to get tons of knowledge and learn to solve the problems you can encounter, especially how Kevin uses his experience and knowledge to identify and resolve potential challenges.”

The paid placement is one of two Artist Development opportunities within the ‘Keep Moving’ initiative, which is produced and managed by the strategic dance development organisation, FABRIC, and funded by the United by 22 Legacy Charity as part of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games Enhancement Fund from West Midlands Combined Authority.

Louise Richards, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Motionhouse: “Sander will have the opportunity to support creative briefs and to experience how Kevin shapes material as the show evolves. We hope that the project will give him insight into building his own artistic practice.”

Becky Bailey, Director of Engagement at FABRIC: “These artist development opportunities allow the transformative power of dance to challenge the perception of disability and what can be achieved in the right environment. For FABRIC, true legacy of this work is systemic change in arts employment and disabled arts leadership. We hope these two artist development experiences will highlight and strengthen what is possible within organisations, and to inspire ambition for disabled artists. We’re excited to see how these two unique experiences provide learning & growth for all involved. The Dance Leaders Group (DLG) and FABRIC are emboldened by what has been achieved through our vision to shift perceptions of who is creatively and economically active in dance. Working with legacy funders we are realising the opportunity for disabled dancers and creatives to gain employment in professional dance companies and structures, leading activity in the regions communities and making work for the stage.”