Safe to say that the wacky world of dance is not overrun with dance works for the “wee folk”, that is small children aged 5 and under. Step forward Ballet Lorent with ‘Underneath the Floorboards’ to fill that particular void.
Instead of creating a work and then sitting uncontrollable little ones in an auditorium this particular show creates a very small, very safe place for the kids to get so close to the show they are actually a part of it.
The work tells the story of a young boy who falls asleep and dreams of discovering his old toys underneath the floorboards of the house he is about to move away from. High jinks ensue. ‘Underneath the Floorboards’ neatly intertwines movement, music and adorable costume and set design that keeps even the most hysterical children hypnotised for the full 45 minute run.
The company say this much;
“Underneath The Floorboards is a new work from balletLORENT’s award-winning choreographer Liv Lorent and co-produced by Northern Stage. Liv has worked with a compelling range of collaborators to create this enchanting production for under 5s with costumes designed and realised by Paul Shriek, story and songs written by Ben Crompton, music and songs composed by Kit Haigh, set designed and realised by Andy Stephenson”
Our feature brings you an interview with company AD and show creator Liv Lorent along with an profile interview with dancer Philippa White.
The work is performed by Jon Beney, Gavin Coward, Gwen Berwick and Phillipa White with choreography by Liv Loren and music by Kit Haigh.
‘Underneath the Floorboards’ continues touring throughout the UK, check the company website for details. Filmed at the Queens Hall in Hexham on March 15th 2012. This video feature was funded in part by Arts Council England.