Last night saw Serendipity travel to The Place, London for the media launch of Let’s Dance International Frontiers 2018, ahead of the festival beginning next month.

Eddie Nixon, director of The Place provided a warm welcome, and informed guests about the historic importance of the studio as a home to pioneering contemporary dance and we were privileged to be able to launch the programme there. I was delighted to be able to speak about the programme that we have taking place this year, and share a few words from our chair, David Bryan, and Germaine Acogny before our line-up of speakers took to the stage.

Ella Mesma, provided an insight into her own journey from emerging artist platform Signatures to Autograph, and how she seeks to share issue based work whilst also exploring a spiritual journey.

Jessica Walker shared a personal insight into the real impact working with Serendipity and LDIF has had on her professional and personal development. Jessica said “even now as I’m continuing as an independent artist… it’s always felt that Serendipity and LDIF have been a quiet support alongside me and with me, and the same way I asked you “what can I do to help?” They are always asking me, “what can we do to help to support you?” It hasn’t gone unrecognised or unnoticed and I’m totally grateful for everything these guys do and they continuously bringing new opportunities and confronting new boundaries.”

Namron came to the launch with a snippet of his new trailer, ahead of his performance for Biography at LDIF18. As a founder member of London Contemporary Dance, The Place is very much a spiritual home for Namron and his work. Namron also highlighted his links to Leicester, performing at the Phoenix Theatre and Haymarket Theatre, and now he will be returning to perform at the New Walk Museum.

We were then treated to a sneak peak performance from Hatti Dawson, who will be participating in the programme for Signatures this year.

The evening was a fantastic opportunity for everyone to come together, and it was great to see both new and familiar faces amongst the guests who included dance practitioners, funders, photographers, press and media. Friends and supporters of Serendipity and Let’s Dance International Frontiers. Now we can’t wait for the launch of LDIF on 29 April!