Dorset Youth Dance (DYD) is a county-wide youth dance company dedicated to providing high-quality dance experiences for young people passionate about movement and performance.

Whether you’re seeking a fun, confidence-building activity or looking to advance your skills for a future performance career, DYD has something for everyone. Our well-rounded programme caters to those who simply want to dance for fun, as well as those ready to take that extra leap in their training towards the professional industry!

Throughout term times, we deliver weekly classes in contemporary dance technique alongside other creative opportunities. We also invite professional artists from other dance disciplines to ensure a range of experiences and variety for our dancers.

Throughout the year, we offer exciting performance opportunities at festivals, events and youth dance platforms. At DYD, we believe in empowering young people through movement, creativity, and performance! Join us and discover the superpower of dance!

Dorset Youth Dance Company rehearsals and classes are currently directed by Emily Thompson-Smith

Emily is a freelance dance artist based in Dorset, known for her work as a performer, facilitator, and creative in the dance industry. She trained at the London Contemporary Dance School, and over the past 14 years, has collaborated with many prestigious dance theatre companies and arts organisations. As a passionate advocate for youth dance, Emily draws from her own experience starting in a youth dance company, believing in its power to ignite possibilities and create opportunities for young dancers.

As a performer Emily has danced professionally for Gary Clarke Company, Luca Silvestrini’s Protein, Shobana Jeyasingh Dance, Aletta Collins, Royal Shakespeare Company, Rhiannon Faith Company and James Cousins Company among others. She has worked extensively in opera, performing and creating productions at The Royal Opera House, Berlin State Opera, Glyndebourne and Opera North, and has worked as a movement director on productions at The National Theatre and assistant movement director for Oxford Playhouse, Alexandra Palace Theatre and Unicorn Theatre. Emily has also worked as a movement specialist in the film and tv industry.

Emily is a highly experienced facilitator and brings a wealth of expertise within community, educational and professional settings. She has a passion for how movement and creativity can improve and enrich wellbeing, mental and physical health. As a facilitator, she believes in empowering and inspiring young people through a sensitive, supportive and uplifting environment! Emily’s own work specialises in youth mental health.

More info: www.emilythompsonsmith.co.uk