RJC Dance Returns to Riley Theatre with Two Sold-Out Festive Season Showcase Performances

RJC Dance made a triumphant return to the Northern School of Contemporary Dance, Riley Theatre last night with its 2025 festive season showcase, the organisation’s first time back on the stage after a year’s absence due to scheduling issues. Across two sold-out evenings, audiences were treated to a vibrant programme featuring the next generation of young creatives from one of the UK’s most respected youth dance organisations

The annual showcase offers a rare opportunity to see RJC Dance Youth Provision performers – including several taking to a professional stage for the very first time – as well as the award-winning team behind the organisations three consecutive “Best Troupe” wins at the 58th Leeds West Indian Carnival.

This year’s programme also spotlighted the ongoing impact of RJC Dance alumni network. A new work premiered by former youth provision member and now professional artist Daniella May demonstrated the organisations long-term commitment to nurturing culturally diverse talent.

Among the audience were Cllr Jane Dowson, Councillor for Chapel Allerton, Chapeltown and Leeds, as well as Fabian Hamilton MP for Leeds North East and Laura Nicholson, Head of Children & Young People’s Dance at One Dance UK.

Over £900 was raised in the raffle, with all proceeds from the event going directly into RJC Dance Youth Provision, ensuring that quality provision is accessible to all young people experiencing barriers to dance participation.

Saturday’s performance concluded with an awards ceremony celebrating young creatives, community members, volunteers and fundraisers who have contributed to the organisations achievements throughout 2025. RJC Dance Chair of Trustees and director, producer and writer Amanda Huxtable presented the certificates.

Kathy Williams MBE,OLY Director said:

“Being back on the Riley Theatre stage is important to us. It’s a space where our young people present their skills and talents and are celebrated. This year’s showcase was a reminder of why we do what we do — creating opportunities and experiences for young people to shine. We’re incredibly proud of every single performer stepping out for the very first time to the alumni who return to give back.”

Cllr Jane Dowson, Chapel Allerton Ward, Deputy Executive Member commented:

“RJC Dance is outstanding, it not only has the most amazing dance skills training for young people, they raise aspirations and confidence too.  The annual Christmas Showcase is an amazing explosion of joy and creativity, the energy in the room is infections.  I always leave feeling not only entertained but proud that such wonderful organisations and exceptional you people live in Leeds”. 

Laura Nicholson, Head of Children & Young People’s Dance at One Dance UK added:

“That was amazing – joyful and uplifting and bursting with energy! What a fab night.”