Forward Motion is a collection of outstanding British screen dance works curated by experts into three programmes. A British Council project co-produced with South East Dance (supported by Arts Council England), Forward Motion creates a moving snapshot of Britain’s prolific screen dance industry.

Forward Motion features over 20 historic, seminal and groundbreaking films along with interviews and insight into artistic practice. Forward Motion demonstrates the diversity of British screen dance, its inspirations and the influence it’s had around the world. It brings together well-known dance films and experimental rarities, provoking discussion and debate. The eclectic programme and the accompanying resources will appeal to a wide range of audiences, from those new to screen dance to those with an in-depth knowledge of the art form.

The British Council and South East Dance have worked with an expert committee to curate the programme.  

The Forward Motion collection includes:

FORWARD MOTION: INTROS (approx. 60 mins)

Professor Liz Aggiss introduces the genre of screen dance. This programme includes short dance films with artist interviews. Includes Touched by Wendy Houstoun and David Hinton, Tra La La by Magali Charrier and the rarely seen gems Basini by Liz Aggiss and Billy Cowie and Sardinas by Lea Anderson.

Click to watch a trailer.

FORWARD MOTION: INSIGHTS (approx. 90mins)

Dr. Vena Ramphal presents a programme of more experimental films with artists discussing their work. Features the enchanting Hands by ex-Royal Ballet soloist Jonathan Burrows and film-maker Adam Roberts, Vanishing Point by Rosemary Butcher and Horizon of Exile by Isabel Rocamora (winner IMZ best screen choreography 2007).

FORWARD MOTION: ARTISTS’ CHOICE (approx. 40 mins)

High profile dance makers select their favourite British dance films. Includes Akram Khan introducing Lloyd Newson’s multi-award winning The Cost of Living; Russell Maliphant selecting Chris Cunningham’s music video for Portishead’s Only You; and Shobana Jeyasingh choosing Miranda Pennell’s Tattoo.

FORWARD MOTION: SPECIAL FEATURES

Extra footage not featured on the main programmes includes exclusive in-depth interviews with Lloyd Newson and Bob Lockyer, both leading figures in the British screen dance industry.