Yorkshire Dance is celebrating the success of Beige – a performance project for 60 people over the age of 50 years. Supported by funding from Leeds Inspired, Yorkshire Dance worked with a team of independent freelance artists who taught the choreography in dance groups across the city, many of which are part of the successful initiative Dance On, funded by Sport England in partnership with One Dance UK and the University of Leeds.

Beige was choreographed by Programmes Director, Hannah Robertshaw as a flashmob style performance, presented on International Day of Older People at White Rose Shopping Centre. Over 300 shoppers enjoyed the performance and a BBC News video of the performance has become a viral sensation with over 150,000 views on social media.

Following its success on International Day of Older People, Beige was restaged for the Quarry Theatre, Leeds Playhouse as part of Yorkshire Dance’s Ageless Festival in front of an audience of over 200 people. The energy and joy from the Beige cast brought the audience to an ecstatic applause.

“Before I was given this chance I felt lonely and alienated. I was persuaded by a friend to come to Yorkshire Dance. ‘Beige’ has been a fantastic journey. I have new self-confidence and have met lovely people. This has been a wonderful experience.” – Beige Participant.

As a result of the success of Beige, Yorkshire Dance are piloting a regular weekly performance group for older adults in addition to the many Dance On sessions currently taking place across Leeds and Bradford.