House Dance 2022

House Dance is always one of the most eagerly anticipated events in Wellington’s cultural calendar, and October’s renewal proved well worth waiting for. This year’s competition, ‘Art in Motion’, was inspired by a range of visual artists, with each house choosing an artist from a prescribed list to theme their routines. What was impressive this year was not only the diversity of interpretations, but also the inclusive nature of the event. Although the rules stipulated that the large dance group had to be at least 12 members strong, many houses had all their pupils on stage: in total more than 750 pupils took part in the heats, while 350 made it through to the finals.

Congratulations to the Talbot who won the Small Dance category with an electric fusion of Latin, ballroom and Michael Jackson, inspired by the work of Roy Lichtenstein, and the Orange, who were Large Dance winners with a clever interpretation of Hokusai’s The Wave. Notable mentions must go to the Hopetoun and Picton who tied as runners-up for Large Dance, while the Apsley were Small Dance runners-up for their streetwise Warhol routine.

Caroline Kenworthy, Wellington’s Director of Dance was delighted with the way all houses got behind the event and said, “We saw some outstanding dance, with many houses beginning their rehearsals from the very beginning of term. Hip hop, ballet, street and acro all featured, and it was great to see new faces turning their hand to dance – pupils with no prior experience seeking guidance, trying something new and encouraging their houses to do the same. On finals night there was a real buzz around College: I could hear last-minute rehearsals, pupils cheering, final pep talks – it was a fantastic atmosphere.”

Well done to all involved for an evening that beautifully demonstrated not only the popularity, but also the strength in depth of Wellington Dance – and which certainly whetted the appetite for the end of term dance show, Alice in Wonderland, which showcases the school’s most talented dancers.

What was impressive this year was not only the diversity of interpretations, but also the inclusive nature of the event.