Collision - Dance Company in Residence

Warrington has its own Dance Company in Residence

Pyramid has its own Dance Company in Residence - Collision, a development made possible thanks to an Arts Council fund and to Pyramid’s determination to raise the profile of dance in the Warrington area. 

From 28 November until 9 December, Collision will run research and development sessions accessible to the public, a rare opportunity to witness how a dance show is born. So, if you’re into dance and want to chat to the experts, pop in during Pyramid’s opening hours to see professionals rehearse. Dance teachers and dance pupils are especially encouraged to pay Collision a visit. Following the two-week practice the company will stage a number of sharings across the North West (by invite only) at venues including The Lowry, the MDI Studio in Liverpool, UCLAN in Preston and, of course, Pyramid on 13 December.

Collision is currently working on a new performance inspired by the lyrics written by the Beatles, which it plans to premiere at Pyramid in autumn of 2006. This is the first time the group has come together and an opportunity for all six dancers to learn to work with one another. Collision members include Lisi Perry, Lee Davern, Gary Clarke, Vanessa Cook, Kath Daggan and Charlotte Grant, all of whom have previously worked for prestigious dance companies. 

Lisi Perry, Collision’s Artistic Director, was raised in Warrington, a big factor in her choice of venue for the group. "As a child I used to practise gymnastics in a hall that is now part of Pyramid. Years later, I find myself working as a professional artist with a company of five dancers in a building and town that hold many great memories. It’s a very special feeling and it’s good to be back."

Collision’s presence at Pyramid is closely linked with the Arts Council’s current strategy to raise the interest and public involvement in dance. With that in mind and with Collision’s help, Pyramid plans to make dance more accessible to the people of Warrington and to build a strong audience for future performances.