Sergeant Mark Denman Helps New College Dance Students Prepare for Winter Show

The New College annual Funky Fusion performance is fast approaching. Yesterday, Sergeant Mark Denman offered a helping hand to Level 2 students in preparation for their dance spectacular on 30th November.

This year there is a key theme surrounding World War I. The idea came about after students were invited to watch a performance of ‘Five Soldiers’ by Rosie Kay Dance Company at the Army Reserve Centre in Swindon. Dance Lecturer Sam Prewett commented, “The students thoroughly enjoyed the experience, as they were also studying a piece ‘Young Men’ by the Ballet Boys, choreographed by Iven Perez.”

Students enjoyed a visit from Sergeant Mark Denman yesterday, he demonstrated how to hold a dummy rifle and the art of carrying a 16kg Bergen – 10 of which the Army Reserve Centre are loaning to New College for the show. The students had fun practising movements, while also gaining an insight into the positives of Army life. This helped the dancers understand some of the processes involved when serving in the Army, providing great inspiration for their choreography.

Sergeant Mark Denman commented, “I think the piece that the students are working on is awesome, it’s really positive to see. There are a lot of misconceptions about how the Army conducts its training; many think it’s all about shouting, but that’s not the case. The Army tries to coach and mentor its Soldiers through Training.”

The Military inspired piece from Level 2 Dance students can be seen at the New College Funky Fusion show on 30th November. Tickets are on sale now, available from the Wyvern Theatre Website or on the door for £4 per ticket; £2 for under 12 years and free for under 5 years.