VERVE new show – ‘something unexpected’
- Robert Beale
- Feb 27
- 2 min read
VERVE – the postgraduate company of the Northern School of Contemporary Dance – features 18 exceptional dancers from nine different countries, trained at some of the world’s most prestigious conservatoires, now on the cusp of professional careers.
Premiering at the Riley Theatre in Leeds on March 6 (after previews at the fifth Festival Jeunes Ballets in Geneva), the new VERVE Triple Bill will visit multiple cities across the UK and international venues.
For the 2026 tour, VERVE collaborates with three artists: Alethia Antonia, Andrea Costanzo Martini and Oona Doherty.
We question. We try by Altheia Antonia, tells a story of relentless questions, blurred answers and attempts to move forward, together and alone, exploring what we might ask our future self, delving into the connection between the individual and the collective.
B O D Y B E by Andrea Costanzo Martini, shows that performing on stage is an act of courage. Through humour, playfulness and unwavering presence, the dancers reveal themselves, allowing their vulnerable humanity to emerge.
Oona Doherty's Hope Hunt invites audiences to step into the world of Lads, Smicks, Hoods, Neds, Chavs, and Roadmen, in a 10-year anniversary production that reimagines the piece from a solo to an 18-strong company celebration of vulnerability, empathy and connection, showing the universal need to be heard, understood and loved.
The trio of contemporary works demonstrates VERVE's range, inviting audiences to experience resonant performances that inspire reflection and thought.
Artistic director Matteo Marfoglia said: “Each choreographer offers a bold and distinctive voice, and we can’t wait to see how these works spark connection and conversation. It’s a chance for the dancers to stretch, and for audiences to see something powerful and unexpected in contemporary dance.”
Performances include: March 6,7 at Riley Theatre, Leeds; March 24 at Nuffield Theatre, Lancaster; May 6 at Leeds Playhouse; May 13 at Harrogate Theatre; May 16 at New Adelphi Theatre, Salford.
More info here
