AutinDT Intern Spotlight

Over the years, we’ve had the joy of welcoming numerous talented interns into our dynamic team. There’s something truly special about working with young, creative minds, and this year, we’re thrilled to introduce a new feature – highlighting the incredible interns who bring fresh perspectives and boundless enthusiasm to our projects.

This month, we’re excited to shine the spotlight on Freya.

Freya Davis is a skilled contemporary dancer and physical theatre performer, achieving a BA(Hons) Dance from the University of Derby and since studying a Masters in Dance Performance and Professional Practice at The University of Salford. Freya has worked with choreographers and companies such as: Joss Arnott, Flock, Anthony Mission, Ludus Dance and Lisa Simpson Inclusive Dance throughout her training and professional career.

What project(s) did you take part with Autin Dance Theatre?
During my internship with Autin Dance Theatre, I was given the opportunity to engage with various projects that ADT are involved with. I participated in Access and Inclusion masterclasses and workshops in Birmingham, expanding my knowledge on how to create a more inclusive space for everyone to be able to engage in dance/movement. I also supported on some outreach work that the company facilitates. This included the Micro Rainbow session; it was amazing to see the impact that creativity had on this community and how they were able to share their individual experiences through movement and still frames. I also supported the company deliver puppetry workshops to primary schools and community groups in preparation for the Ashbourne Lantern Festival. Another opportunity that I was given was to be a part of the crew for the work ‘Parade’ when it toured to Derby Festé.

How was your experience on these projects been like?
I have loved being a part of these projects, sharing the beauty and positivity of movement to various groups of people and seeing how each group responded to what the company were offering. It was amazing to see how the primary school students brought their puppets to life, bringing a sense of magic to their movement.

What’s been a memorable moment or experience? And Why?
My most memorable experience was working with the Micro Rainbow group. I felt inspired by how they were able to share their personal experiences and create movement from this. The day that we spent together being creative felt important, special, and necessary. This session showed me that dance really does have a powerful impact on people.

What have you learned from us, if anything?
Since working with the team on outreach projects I have been able to learn how to adapt the themes of the workshops to fit different groups. Changing the games and tasks to fit different age groups, to be an idea that they are already familiar with. For example, using the game of follow the leader to introduce the dance tool of flocking to primary school groups.
I have also learnt about how much is involved in putting shows together from rehearsal to performance. As well as this, I’ve gained an appreciation of the skills required to take part in puppetry and the big wheel in ‘Parade’.

If you had to describe the company in 3 words what would they be?
Welcoming, positive, and vibrant

Anything else you’d like to share with the public, from behind the curtain/behind the scene?

Autin Dance Theatre is extremely supportive of everyone they work with, they encourage dance participants and artists to reach their potential in a safe and creative environment.