OVER 100 Ilkley Grammar School students who attend Joze School of Dance in Ilkley impressed audiences on Saturday, May 6 with their performance of Dance Nation.

The highly professional show impressed audiences with its imaginative and energetic choreography and powerful interpretation of the music.

The company showcased the wealth of IGS talent who danced their hearts out from the slick paced opening number End of Time right through to the finale. Other highlights included the highly accomplished performances from the Reps Troupe, a poignant duet Falling Slowly danced beautifully by IGS students Livia Hammond and Daniel Burgess, and an exquisite ballet performance, Turning Pages from Camille Ribeiro, who is also currently in the CAT programme at the Northern Ballet. Dressed in red and black costumes, the dramatic Montagues and Capulets number was executed with power and passion, whilst the Pop Danthology and Becky from the Block oozed attitude from start to finish. The contemporary dances Tears in Heaven, Chandelier, Wings and Tubular Bells were simply stunning, whilst Bat Out of Hell with the dancers dressed in their capes brought the first act to a climatic end.

As well as her own duet, Year 11 student Livia Hammond helped to choreograph two of the show pieces, including Immortality which was sung movingly by sisters Charlotte and Sophie Armitage. Livia, Milly Parker, Charlie Murray, and Emily Mayo actually assisted Principal Jo Sproston with the production of the show; Charlie and Emily also led some of the company’s youngest performers in a charming interpretation of Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head.

A special mention must go to Ella Shuttleworth who was awarded the prestigious Star Performer for the senior category. This award recognises not only superb dancing, but also dedication and commitment throughout the weeks and months in preparation for the show. Previous winners include IGS students Gus Lovell (Junior 2012), Charlotte Armitage (Senior 2014) and Charlie Murray (senior 2016).

Mrs Carly Purnell, deputy headteacher at IGS said: "Well done to everyone involved. What a talented bunch you all are!"