CELEBRATING THE IMPACT OF FEMALE DANCE LEADERS AT NSCD

In celebration of International Women’s Day, we are excited to highlight the inspiring work of some of the women leading the way here at Northern School of Contemporary Dance (NSCD). From empowering the next generation of dancers to advocating for inclusivity and diversity in dance, their careers have become a testament to passion, resilience and dedication. In this feature, we celebrate the individual journeys of these powerful women, each contributing in their own unique way to the world of dance.

Sharon Watson: A Visionary Leader in Dance

Sharon Watson MBE DL – CEO & Principal of NSCD, is a leader whose career has spanned performance, choreography and education, leaving an indelible mark on the contemporary dance world. Sharon’s story is one of perseverance, vision and commitment to diversity in the arts. A pivotal moment in Sharon’s life came when she was invited to join Phoenix Dance Company in 1989 as one of its first female dancers. This opportunity solidified her belief that, as a professional artist, she was adding value to the sector. It was here that Sharon’s journey took flight, transitioning from dancer to leader, eventually becoming the Artistic Director of Phoenix Dance Theatre.

The Transformative Power of Dance

Sharon’s motivation stems from a deep commitment to nurturing the next generation of dancers and advocating for diversity in the arts.

“By viewing dance as a universal language that connects people across cultures, it remains a key influencer in my activity and decision making,” she says.

Throughout her career, Sharon has worked tirelessly to champion diversity, support underrepresented voices, and challenge societal labels. Her work has sparked conversations about identity and heritage, with productions like Windrush: Movement of the People and Black Waters resonating deeply with audiences.

Leaving a Lasting Legacy

Sharon’s career has been filled with notable achievements, including becoming one of the first female Principal Dancers with Phoenix Dance Company, choreographing influential works, and serving as the Artistic Director at Phoenix Dance Theatre. In 2020, she became the CEO and Principal of NSCD, where she continues to shape arts education.

“I hope my legacy will be defined by my commitment to diversity, education, and the empowerment of future generations,” Sharon reflects.

Tracy Witney: A Passion Ignited Early

NSCD’s Head of Learning & Participation Tracy Witney’s career has been a journey of self-discovery, teaching and creating opportunities for the next generation of dancers. Her story is one of resilience and dedication to making dance accessible to all. Tracy’s love for dance began in a small village hall, where she was introduced to jazz, contemporary dance and improvisation by her teacher, Cindy Zudys.

“Cindy recognised my passion; she took me to the theatre to watch dance and gave me specialist dance magazines to read,” Tracy recalls.

This early encouragement sparked a journey that would change her life forever. As a teenager, Tracy decided to pursue dance full-time, attending Henley College to deepen her understanding of contemporary dance. For Tracy, dance quickly became more than just a hobby—it became her identity, a path she was determined to follow.

Dance: A Path to Empathy and Resilience

Throughout her career, Tracy has been shaped by her experiences in dance, using it as a tool for connection and empathy.

“Dance pushes you physically, mentally, and emotionally, and through this, you learn resilience,” she explains.

This mindset has been key to Tracy’s work, from her early days as a freelancer and Education Manager with Phoenix Dance Theatre to her current leadership role at NSCD. For Tracy, the most rewarding part of her work is seeing students build confidence, form lasting relationships, and discovering their own pathways —whether within the arts or beyond.

“I don’t think I could work outside of dance anymore,” Tracy admits. “It’s in my DNA and intertwined with so many areas of my life, from work to personal friendships.”

Shaping the Future of Dance

Tracy’s professional milestones are a testament to her passion and commitment. After studying at Bretton Hall, Tracy worked with renowned companies, developing and sharing work on national and international stages. When an injury shifted her focus to dance education, Tracy found her true calling at NSCD. As Head of Learning and Participation, she has played a crucial role in expanding educational opportunities for dancers across the UK and internationally.

“NSCD is where I feel I can make the most difference,” she says. “As I get older, I aim to pass on the insights I’ve gained throughout my career.”

Tracy’s advocacy for the integration of dance into educational systems, especially for young people, reflects her belief in the power of dance to improve mental and physical well-being.

Keira Martin: Empowering Marginalised Communities through Dance

Following Tracy’s incredible journey, we turn to the inspiring work of NSCD Lecturer Keira Martin – a versatile artist, award-winning choreographer and film-maker recognised internationally for her interdisciplinary approach, blending traditional and contemporary art forms. With a career spanning over 25 years, she has earned a reputation as a director, choreographer, performer, storyteller, singer, musician, mentor and facilitator.

A passionate advocate for marginalised communities, cultural diversity and social justice, Keira’s work often explores themes of identity, gender, class, and culture.

Keira’s career is rooted in her core belief that dance can be a life-saving force, particularly for young people from low socio-economic backgrounds. Her dual role as performer and teacher allows her to directly influence and empower the next generation of dancers, ensuring they have access to opportunities that will change their lives.

A Life-Changing Experience with Dance

Keira’s personal journey with dance began in a working-class community, where she found a sense of belonging and self-expression through movement. For Keira, dance was a way to overcome the challenges she faced growing up, offering her a platform to express herself and build confidence. This transformative experience ignited her passion for ensuring that young people from marginalised backgrounds have the same opportunities to use dance as a tool for personal growth.

Balancing Performance and Teaching

Keira expertly balances her dual roles as a performer and educator, believing that both aspects enrich one another.

“Balancing performance and teaching requires a deep sense of organisation and a flexible mindset,” Keira explains.

Her performing career keeps her connected to the latest trends in the industry, while her teaching allows her to break down movement for her students in ways that deepen her own understanding of dance.

“Teaching helps me refine my own technique and allows me to share not only technical skills but also the emotional depth that comes with being a performer,” she says.

Empowering the Next Generation

For Keira, dance is not just about developing technical skills but also about empowering students to overcome societal norms and discover their own strengths.

“Dance has been a transformative force in my life, and I pass that empowerment on to my students by encouraging them to use dance as a form of self-exploration,” she says. “I aim to help them see dance not just as a technical skill but as a way to connect to their emotions and stories.”

Shaping the Future of Dance Education

Keira’s work at NSCD is a direct reflection of her belief in the importance of empowering the next generation of dancers.

“Women have a critical role to play in shaping the future of dance by leading the charge in innovation, inclusivity, and artistic expression,” she says.

Keira’s dedication to ensuring greater representation of women and marginalised communities in dance is evident in her work, as she actively encourages female students to take on leadership roles and challenge the status quo.

A Collective Legacy of Empowerment and Change

Sharon, Tracy and Keira each bring a unique and powerful perspective to the world of dance. Together, they form a collective of incredible leaders at NSCD, committed to shaping the future of dance through education, advocacy and artistic innovation. Their work not only inspires the next generation of dancers but also leaves a lasting impact on the dance world, ensuring that it remains a space of inclusivity, empowerment, and transformation.

As we celebrate their achievements, we look forward to the future they are shaping—a future where dance continues to inspire, unite, and empower individuals from all walks of life.