Elliott Thompson wins a place at world-renowned Phoenix Dance Theatre


Young performer Elliott Thompson is celebrating after winning a place at a top dance company.

Elliott, who grew up in Rastrick, has beaten off strong competition to win one of just two apprenticeships at Phoenix Dance Theatre.

Based in Leeds, it is one of the UK’s leading contemporary dance companies.

Elliott, 22, won a place on its graduate scheme after taking part in seven gruelling auditions for dance schools based all over the country.

But he needs to raise almost £6,000 in order to take up his place and become one step closer towards his professional performing dream.

Elliott said: “Growing up in Yorkshire has continuously presented me with many exciting opportunities for dance.

“I am delighted at the chance to stay here for another year. 

“Phoenix is a world-renowned company and a great opportunity for me.

“(However) the postgraduate course comes at a cost which I and my family cannot afford alone so I am searching for sponsorship/funding to help me.”

The former Rastrick High School pupil came into dancing quite late, training as a gymnast until the age of 14.

But this provided him with qualities of flexibility and strength and a friend encouraged him to take up dancing.

Elliott studied dance at Huddersfield New College and was encouraged to apply for a degree at the Northern School of Contemporary Dance in Leeds after its performers held a workshop there.

He is due to graduate there this summer and earlier this year auditioned for various dance schools throughout the country.

Elliott said: “From 160, they recalled 30 for the professional apprenticeship auditions.

“I did seven auditions for the specific companies and did things like technique classes and repertoire, creative tasks, solos and duets and being taught a piece by the companies to see how I looked with them.

“I was very glad I got Phoenix. It’s a strong, creative and contemporary company which is the style I want to do.

“It’s nice for such a big company to be based in Yorkshire as most things happen in London - for there to be so much creativity up north is a great thing. “

Elliott added: “I intend to contribute my experiences to the lively dance culture that is constantly evolving within Yorkshire.

“(My hope is) to re-invest in the talent growing around me when my placement has finished."

Funding Phoenix Dance Company Press Release