The dance theatre company has announced a significant development in its youth company’s artistic leadership, as they begin auditions and masterclasses as part of a new search to meet the next generation of dancers.
ZooNation: The Kate Prince Company has today confirmed that the 2025 cohort of ZooNation Youth Company dancers will be led by the joint artistic leadership of ZooNation’s Founder and Artistic Director Kate Prince and Associate Artistic Director Dannielle ‘Rhimes’ Lecointe.
Talking about the news, Kate Prince said, “It’s a full circle moment for me as the company’s Founder. Having spent significant time on productions including Sylvia at the Old Vic, The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party at The Royal Opera House and Message In A Bottle which recently returned from a world tour and Broadway, I can’t wait to get back in the studio where it all began. The next generation need access to the arts and genuine opportunities like ZYC more than ever. I am incredibly proud of our alumni who have gone on to achieve remarkable things. For many of the young people who have joined us, it has been a life-changing experience. ZYC offers not only professional opportunities, but also a place to train, be inspired, and feel part of something special.
Formed in 2006, the ZooNation Youth Company has developed into a leading training and performance company of around 20 young hip-hop performers. Notable alumni include Rambert dance artist Liam Francis, Dancer and International Dance Educator Dylan Mayoral and Candoco Dance Artist Annie Edwards. Over 150 young people aged between 10-20 have been through ZYC.
Dannielle ‘Rhimes’ Lecointe said: “I’ve worked with ZYC intensively over the years and am honoured to carry on the legacy of outstanding talent we have raised up in the industry. To also do this with Kate, for the first time whom I’ve worked with for 18 years is incredibly exciting and feels like a fresh wave for the company.”
Since its formation, the company has put on numerous productions including: Groove On Down The Road at Southbank Centre, and performances in the West End show Into
the Hoods. Members of the company performed in Nelson Mandela’s 90th Birthday Celebrations (broadcast worldwide) and were invited to perform for the International Olympics Committee at the Royal Opera House during the London 2012 Olympics opening ceremony.
Preparatory masterclasses and auditions to join ZooNation Youth Company begin this Autumn. For more information and to register your interest in joining ZooNation Youth Company please visit zoonation.co.uk/apply