The Hammond’s latest dance production, Elements, is a dazzling celebration of creativity, artistry and exceptional young talent. Across two acts featuring 24 beautifully crafted dance works, the audience was taken on a captivating journey through the themes of air, water, fire, gold, iron, steel and many other elemental inspirations. Each performance flowed effortlessly into the next, creating a seamless theatrical experience that built in excitement and emotion towards a thrilling finale.
The entire cast of 72 students, from Years 7 to 11, held the audience spellbound from beginning to end. Their technical excellence was matched by genuine joy, confidence and commitment, resulting in performances that were both inspiring and deeply engaging. Every dancer demonstrated remarkable skill while performing with maturity far beyond their years.
David Needham taught at The Hammond for many years before his retirement and now serves as a Patron and Dance Director. He rightly acknowledges the outstanding dedication of the school’s inspirational teaching staff and creative team. Their collective expertise, imagination and unwavering commitment continue to ensure that dance education at The Hammond remains among the very best. Together with Principal Jennifer Roscoe and her colleagues, they have fostered a culture where excellence is expected and consistently achieved.
Since becoming Principal in 2019, having previously served as Academic Vice Principal, Jennifer Roscoe has provided visionary leadership that has strengthened The Hammond’s reputation as a centre of excellence in specialised performing arts education. The school offers exceptional training and pastoral support during the crucial teenage years, enabling students to flourish both artistically and personally.
The breadth and quality of training on display were outstanding. Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz, Commercial, Tap and a range of cultural dance styles were performed with impressive technical precision, artistry, stamina and musicality. The school’s progressive curriculum is clearly evident: younger students develop strong technical foundations and broad performance experience, while older students demonstrate increasing confidence, professionalism and readiness for future careers in the performing arts.
The production values were equally impressive. Beautifully designed costumes, imaginative lighting and an effective set design enhanced every performance without ever overshadowing the dancers themselves. Every element combined to create a visually stunning and emotionally uplifting production.
Elements is a magnificent showcase of The Hammond’s commitment to excellence. It celebrates not only extraordinary dance training but also the confidence, creativity and dedication of its students and staff. It was a joyful, inspiring and unforgettable evening that left the audience thoroughly delighted and deservedly proud of everyone involved.
Peter Johnson for Canal St Media