Flashdance – Urdang graduates

Despite being written before many of our cast were born, Flashdance feels more relevant today to students training in Musical Theatre than any of us could have previously anticipated. In a post-pandemic world where we are seeing a huge economic downfall, the backdrop of the 1983 film in which our heroine Alex is working two jobs amidst an economic depression to support her dream of training at an exclusive dance school feels all to familiar in our current climate.

Throughout the show, we see Alex navigate social and economic challenges, and we really wanted to explore how we can relate to this in 2023 whilst making sure the show is always rooted in female empowerment and self expression through dance.

In the ‘Flashdance’ moments within the show, we see our characters celebrate the physical liberation of dance which ultimately leads to Alex being accepted into a world in which she never felt included, just by being herself. A message that echoes through the corridors of Urdang loudly. Inclusion, passion, kindness and drive, the ethos of Urdang is reflected so much in this show and it has been such a privilege to work alongside this team to bring this show to life for Urdang students.

Our world all too often feels sparse of joy and creativity. Flashdance is a reminder that you really can dance through your life and that no dream is out of reach.

‘Take your passion, and make it happen’ ….Always!

March 23rd & March 25th 2023

Director: Maisey Bawden

Musical Director: Flynn Sturgeon

Choreographers: Nathan ‘Neo’ Gordon, Lynsey McDougall.