The Hammond introduces groundbreaking West African Dance Programme

In an unprecedented move that sets a new standard in dance education, The Hammond, a dance school in Chester, UK, renowned for its exceptional ballet training, has made a groundbreaking addition to its curriculum by introducing West African Dance.

Launched in September 2022, this initiative places The Hammond on par with elite institutions such as Juilliard, The Ailey School, and NYU, heralding a new era in its educational offerings. The curriculum for this pioneering program was co-developed by Nahum McLean, founder of the African Diaspora Dance Association (ADDA), and Catherine Foster, a Broadway veteran and West African Dance Professor at NYU.

The day-to-day instruction is led by McLean, whose extensive background includes performances with notable companies like Richard Alston and Alvin Ailey, as well as his international and West End experiences. Under McLean's tutelage, students at The Hammond are immersed in the ADDA's West African dance syllabus, exploring the rich cultural heritage and dynamic movements that define West African dance. This program goes beyond mere dance techniques, fostering a deep understanding and appreciation of the cultural history behind these dance forms.

Emma Thomas, Diversity and Inclusivity Leader and dance teacher at The Hammond, shared her excitement about the program's impact: "The inclusion of West African dance training has had a transformative effect on our students and is pivotal for a comprehensive training approach. We introduce students in years 7 and 8 to various cultural rhythms and dances, including Kuku and Sinté from Guinea, accompanied by live drummers. This exposure not only enhances their skill set but also deepens their understanding of the cultural roots essential for studying jazz, commercial, hip hop, and tap dance."

A recent highlight showcasing the success of this initiative was the school's production, which featured a West African dance piece.

Emma Thomas, reflecting on her 20 years at The Hammond, remarked, "For the first time ever, we witnessed a standing ovation in the middle of a Hammond show. This is a true testament to the fresh, raw energy West African dance brings to our school. It was an incredible moment that underscored the profound impact of integrating such a vibrant dance form into our curriculum."

The Hammond's decision to include West African dance in its curriculum underscores the school's commitment to offering a diverse and comprehensive dance education, ensuring students are well-prepared to become versatile artists deeply appreciative of the global dance community's rich diversity.

For more information about The Hammond and its innovative dance programs, please contact Erin Royle at erin.royle@thehammond.co.uk or visit www.thehammond.co.uk. Further inquiries about ADDA can be directed to Rachel Lau at info@adda.org.uk or through www.adda.org.uk.