Dancers challenge perceptions

BY LISA HONEYBONE

A Shore dance company is challenging people's perceptions about dance.

Touch Compass works with disabled and able-bodied dancers and is known for its aerial work.

It has been running for more than 12 years and this year education co-ordinator Susie Tate says members have lots of plans.

The group puts an emphasis on teacher training and mentoring which Mrs Tate says is important for "nurturing in-house talent."

Full-scale rehearsals start soon in the lead-up to their next big performance in August.

They would also like to set up a youth dance project by the end of the year.

Mrs Tate says ultimately they would like to become a fulltime dance company touring internationally.

She says they could lead the way in integrated dance – if they had the resources.

Touch Compass was recently awarded $3000 from the North Shore mayoral youth fund, which will go towards a project with Wilson School and Manuka Primary School.

She says they still need more funding for it to take place in both schools.

Mrs Tate says they always struggle with funds so there is a volunteer element to Touch Compass.

Based at the Wilson Home in Takapuna, they have built strong working relationships with Wilson School and Takapuna Grammar.

Mrs Tate says student involvement has a great knock-on affect.

She says it gives students the opportunity to find a niche whether it be choreography or helping backstage.

"They can explore and be pointed in the right direction," she says.

Mrs Tate says the focus of Touch Compass is looking at the body in a different way and seeing how it moves.

"It’s about changing people’s perceptions of what dance is and who can dance."

She says they are continually challenging attitudes that it’s not about disability.

"There is great work happening and it’s only going to grow."

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