Episodes

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Akram Khan20180421Katie Derham meets the choreographer and dancer Akram Khan as he undertakes his last performing role in a full length piece with Xenos for Sadler Wells.

The programme explores Akram's background in traditional Indian Kathak dance, and looks back over his career to date, focusing on his collaborations with composers such as Nitin Sahwney, Jocelyn Pook, Steve Reich and Vincenzo Lamagna. Akram also talks about his version of Giselle, which appear in cinemas this week, and about his new piece Xenos, which receives its UK premiere next month.

Continuing with the Indian dance theme, Katie's Classic Score of the Week is Ludwig Minkus's 'La Bayadere'.

Katie Derham with Akram Khan.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Arabic Dance20170701Katie Derham looks at the influence of Arabic traditions on Western dance in the light of the forthcoming Shubbak Festival in London, which offers a window on contemporary Arab culture.

From the Whirling Dervishes to the Dabke: from the Sabre Dance to the Raqs Sharqi - the Arab imagination has provided a potent and exotic influence on dance. Katie unpicks some of the great traditions of Arabic dance and culture and hones in on some of influences on our own culture - from the highly romanticised and idealistic to the more informed and authentic.

The Classic Score of the Week is Khachaturian's 1942 ballet Gayane.

Katie Derham explores the influence of Arabic traditions on Western dance.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Bach And The Ballet20171223Katie Derham looks at the response from the world of ballet to the music of Bach with the American dancer and choreographer Mark Morris. The spirit of dance lies at the heart of so much of Bach's music and in recent years choreographers have tapped into this for inspiration for new work - most notably Mark Morris, whose arresting and innovative work for ballet has often made people think the medium afresh. The music of the Baroque has provided him with a rich source of inspiration, including his work with cellist Yo Yo Ma for the series 'Inspired by Bach' which resulted in the acclaimed 'Falling Down Stairs' - a dancer's response to Bach's Cello Suite No 3.

Katie Derham and Mark Morris look at the world of ballet's response to the music of Bach.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Baroque Dance At Versailles And Beyond20170624Katie Derham explores dance at the court of Versailles - the dance music of Louis XIV and the French baroque, and the origins of classical ballet.

Picture the scene at Versailles - the Sun King Louis wielding his political power in court - and dancing. It seems strange to us today, but the two were indelibly intertwined in the 17th century. Ballets and operas were extravagant spectacles used to celebrate marriages or show off wealth and power. Louis was known as a great dancer, and in fact, he is seen as the father of classical ballet, establishing the first ballet school in a room at the Louvre palace. His key composer was Jean-Baptiste Lully, who created the first dances which told a story.

In this episode Katie uncovers a hidden dimension of the music in the context of the dance steps, including an interview with the baroque dancer Mary Collins, and musicians Rachel Brown and Adrian Butterfield, who are all working on a joint project, and an insight into dance and power from George Blagden who plays Louis XIV in the BBC TV series 'Versailles'.

Katie Derham explores dance at the court of Versailles.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Benoit Swan Pouffer20190420Katie Derham talks to the new artistic director at Rambert, Benoit Swan Pouffer. From his days at the critically acclaimed Cedar Lake company in New York, Pouffer was known for championing new and innovative choreographers and his collaborations. Now at Rambert, Benoit Swan will discuss his approach to contemporary dance, and his plans for the company.

Producer - Ellie Mant

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Bernstein At The Ballet20180407Katie Derham looks at the music of Bernstein and explores just why it's so well suited to dance. And ahead of the Royal Ballet's Bernstein centenary celebrations, Katie talks to choreographer Wayne McGregor as he prepares a new ballet to Bernstein's Chichester Psalms. They discuss the creative process, and why even a choral setting of psalms is inviting to a choreographer if the music is by Bernstein.

From the music specifically written for dance, such as West Side Story and Fancy Free with their iconic Jerome Robbins choreography, to the symphonies and choral works, Bernstein's music lends itself to dance. As Robbins himself said, 'There was a power in the rhythms of his work which had a need for it to be demonstrated by dance'.

Katie Derham talks to choreographer Wayne McGregor about Bernstein's music.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Building A Ballet20190427Katie Derham explores the process of creating a brand new ballet, from commissioning the music and the initial concept, through rehearsals, to the final performance. In February the Linbury Theatre re-opened with Blue Moon - a new ballet for seven female dancers, choreographed by Aletta Collins to a new score by David Sawer. Katie talks to them, along with principal dancers Beatriz Stix-Brunell and Hannah Grennell at all stages of the process about how the whole production comes together.

Producer - Ellie Mant

Katie Derham explores the process of creating a brand new ballet.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Caribbean Dance20180428Katie Derham explores the vibrant and varied world of Caribbean music and dance and finds out why it makes a good dance partner with mediaeval French Polyphony.

So much of the culture of the Caribbean has been shaped by the many and various peoples who have informed its history, and this is mirrored in its music and dance.

Katie Derham looks at some of distinctive dance styles of the Caribbean and meets the award-winning choreographers Cecilia Bengolea and Fran瀀ois Chaignaud, whose latest dance collaboration DFS, currently running at Sadlers Wells, fuses Caribbean Dance Hall with the music of Machaut.

Katie Derham explores the vibrant and varied world of Caribbean music and dance.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Carlos Acosta Celebrates 30 Years In Dance20180922Katie Derham talks to internationally renowned Cuban dancer and choreographer Carlos Acosta about his new show celebrating 30 years in dance.

From the streets of Cuba to an international career spanning the National Ballet of Cuba, English National Ballet, Houston Ballet, and a long term residency at the Royal Ballet, Carlos Acosta is one of the world's greatest dancers. Following his retirement from classical ballet in 2016, Carlos returns to the London stage with a new show with his company Acosta Danza. Carlos talks to Katie about putting his show together, what inspires him as a dancer and a choreographer, and reflects on his 30 years in dance.

Producer - Ellie Mant

Carlos Acosta celebrates 30 years in dance with a new show at the Royal Albert Hall.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Contemporary Choreographers In Ballet20171125Katie Derham explores contemporary choreography in ballet, with Twyla Tharp.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Dance On Screen20181222Katie Derham explores dance on film, from Fred and Ginger's elegance to the lycra of 1980s dance movies. And coming right up to the present, Katie talks to Mandy Moore, award-winning choreographer of La La Land. They'll discuss the art of choreographing for the big screen, how it differs to the stage.

Katie Derham talks to choreographer Mandy Moore

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Darcey Bussell20170708The first thing you're told is listen, listen to the music - the music and the step are as one. As a child you're not always aware of this'.

Katie Derham talks to a Darcey Bussell about a dancer's relationship with music. Darcey Bussell, as a Principal at the Royal Ballet for nearly twenty years and now a judge on Strictly Come Dancing, has prepared many roles for the stage, and also has a broad range of tastes in music. She looks back over her career, and to some of her earliest forays in dance, to consider some of the almost alchemical ways in which dancer and music interact. She offers suggestions of where music and dance are wonderfully matched in the work of others, not least in the partnership of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, and talks about some of her favourite and inspirational music for the ballet.

The programme features music for some of Darcey's great roles including from Romeo and Juliet; The Prince Of The Pagodas; Sylvia; and The Song Of The Earth.

Darcey Bussell joins Katie Derham to discuss a dancer's relationship with music.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

David Bintley's Birmingham20190406In the first of a new series of the programme, Katie Derham meets David Bintley whose remarkable time as Artistic Director of the Birmingham Royal Ballet comes to an end this summer after 24 years. Katie looks back on David's time with BRB and features music from his distinctive body of work for the company, such as Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, Still Life at the Penguin Caf退, Far From The Madding Crowd, and Edward II.

The programme also grabs an overview of Birmingham's thriving rich and varied dance culture, as featured in the BBC's recent 'Dance Passion' week.

Katie Derham talks to choreographer David Bintley

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

English Folk Dance20190413Katie Derham explores English Folk Dance with professional folk dancer Kerry Fletcher and folk musician Chris Walshaw. From morris and sword dancing to the lively social side encompassing ceilidh, barn and country dancing. Katie and guests will look at the history and development of folk dance, and demonstrate how dancers and musicians work together.

Producer - Ellie Mant

Katie Derham presents, with folk dancer Kerry Fletcher and musician Chris Walshaw.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Flamenco20181208Katie Derham delves into the world of Flamenco with dancer Samantha Quy and guitarist Tito Heredia. A dance form associated with the Andalusian Roma gypsies of Southern Spain, the dance, song and guitar all have equal importance. Katie will explore the history, and her guests will talk about the intricate timing systems, demonstrate how they follow each other, and explain how flamenco can become a way of life for its performers.

Katie Derham delves into the world of Flamenco with Samantha Quy and Tito Heredia.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Jazz Hands With Arlene Phillips20180414In this week's Sound of Dance Katie Derham delves into the dance world of musical theatre. From the ballroom influenced 1920s to the golden age of the 1930 and 40s, the Broadway director/choreographers of the 1950s & 60s, and the dance musicals of the 70s and 80s. Katie will look at the landmark musicals, and how the dance styles within them has developed over the last century. And Katie is joined by choreographer Arlene Phillips to discuss her starry career, choreographers who have influenced her work, and where dance in musicals might go next .

Katie Derham explores the dance world of musical theatre with guest Arlene Phillips.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Jerome Robbins20181215Katie Derham delves into the work of the iconic choreographer Jerome Robbins in his centenary year. Best known as creator, choreographer, and co-director of West Side Story, Robbins' career spanned success not only in film and on Broadway, but importantly at the heart of the New York City Ballet where, as Associate Director, he worked closely with George Balanchine. Katie is joined by Robert Fairchild, former New York City Ballet Principal, to explore Robbins' unique way of telling stories through movement.

Katie Derham delves into the choreography of Jerome Robbins in his centenary year.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Kenneth Macmillan Celebration20171209Katie Derham explores the adventurous choreography of Sir Kenneth MacMillan 25 years after his death, in conversation with the former director of the Royal Ballet Dame Monica Mason and the Royal Ballet principal dancer Edward Watson, uncovering the key elements of Macmillan's style and the importance of narrative in his works. The classic score of the week is Stravinsky's The Fairy's Kiss, which Macmillan choreographed in 1960.

Katie Derham explores the choreography of Sir Kenneth MacMillan 25 years after his death.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Marie Rambert, A Ballet, By Wayne Eagling20180908Katie Derham explores the life and legacy of Marie Rambert, one of the pioneers of modern British ballet, and talks to choreographer Wayne Eagling about his new ballet based on her life.

Born in Poland, Marie 'Mim' Rambert's career began in Paris, helping Diaghilev train his cast to dance the Rite of Spring. At the outbreak of WW1 she came to London and formed her own dance school, which developed into the Ballet Rambert, the oldest English ballet company still performing today. Her teaching inspired the next generations of dancers and choreographers, including Wayne Eagling whose new ballet 'Remembrance' is based on her life, and the separation from her husband when he was called away to war. Katie talks to Wayne about the concept of his new ballet, and Marie Rambert's continuing importance to the ballet world.

Producer - Ellie Mant

Katie Derham talks with Wayne Eagling about Marie Rambert and his ballet inspired by her.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Matthew Bourne20181201Katie Derham talks to choreographer Matthew Bourne. As his iconic production of Swan Lake returns to the stage, they'll discuss why he reinvented it for a corps-de-ballet of male swans, and how it has inspired a generation of boy dancers. A relatively late-starter in the ballet world, Matthew Bourne quickly became well-known for his individualistic approach to the classics. He'll talk about the music that inspires him, and the importance of story-telling in a new production.

Award-winning choreographer Matthew Bourne discusses how he reinvents classic ballets.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Origins Of Jazz Dance20171202Katie Derham considers the world of early jazz dance with Strictly Come Dancing choreographer Ryan Francois, from its roots in the notorious world of black slavery, to Harlem in the 1920s, and beyond.

A popular feature of BBC One's 'Strictly Come Dancing' are the jazz routines - the Charleston and Jive, with their colour, excitement and joie de vivre. Katie Derham looks back on the journey that these dance styles undertook before arriving at their modern form and considers the stories, music and movement that shaped them. With Katie is one of Strictly's regular choreographers, Ryan Francois, a specialist in jazz dance, who helps to unpick the origins of one of dance's most vibrant forms.

Katie Derham looks at the origins of jazz dance, including the Charleston.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Sir Frederick Ashton20170603Katie Derham presents a new series combining her passions for music and dance in a variety of genres, exploring how music expresses movement, and how the movement expresses the music. She begins with the choreographer Sir Frederick Ashton, founder choreographer of the Royal Ballet and a hugely influential figure in the early 20th century. Katie selects music from some of his most iconic ballets and talks to the current Royal Ballet director, Kevin O'Hare, about Ashton's significance, ahead of a revival of The Dream at Covent Garden. The Classic Dance Score of the Week is Prokofiev's Cinderella.

Katie Derham focuses on the work of choreographer Sir Frederick Ashton.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Soviet Ballets20171118Katie Derham uncovers the music and aesthetics of the new ballets in the Soviet Union after 1917, with experimental ideas being produced during the 1920s and 30s, especially by Dmitri Shostakovich in collaboration with the choreographer Fyodor Lopukhov. With David Nice and Judith Mackrell. The Classic Score of the Week is Khachaturian's Spartacus.

Part of Breaking free: A Century of Russian Culture.

Katie Derham uncovers the history of new ballets in the Soviet Union after 1917.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Tango20170610Katie Derham presents a series exploring the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres. This week's topic is tango, which originated in Argentina, travelled across Europe, and returned to Argentina, creating a Golden Age of tango in the 1930s. Including an interview with the bandoneon player Julian Rowlands and dancers David and Kim Benitez. The Classic Dance Score of the week is by Astor Piazzolla.

Katie focuses on the tango, with an interview with bandoneon player Julian Rowlands.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

Tap With Clare Halse And Simon Adkins From The Musical 42nd Street20180915Katie Derham explores the world of tap with leading lady Clare Halse and resident choreographer Simon Adkins from the smash hit musical 42nd Street.

From its roots as a mixture of clog dancing, soft shoe and African-influenced dance, tap as we know it started to emerge in the 1920s. Some Vaudeville and night club performers successfully made the transition into film when the talkies were invented, culminating a golden age of Hollywood with dancers like Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. Katie looks at the history and development of the dance form, and talks to Clare Halse and Simon Adkins about how the rhythm of tap becomes part of a musical score.

Producer - Ellie Mant

The world of tap with Clare Halse and Simon Adkins.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

The Contemporary Ballet Composer20170617Katie Derham explores the role of the composer in ballet today. Including an interview with Sally Beamish about her work with Birmingham Royal Ballet and her current project with Northern Ballet on the Little Mermaid.

There is a long tradition for creating new ballets from already established music, often from pieces that were not intended by the composer for dance. In recent years the Violin Concerto of Thomas Ad耀s - Concentric Paths - provided the inspiration for a highly acclaimed new ballet for choreographer Wayne McGregor. All of which begs the question, what makes good music for the ballet?

There is also a healthy tradition of commissioning purpose made music for the ballet from contemporary composers , and in today's programme Katie features music from some of her favourite modern examples, including Joby Talbot's 'Alice's Adventures In Wonderland' for the Royal Ballet and John McCabe's 'Edward II' for Birmingham Royal Ballet; and Julian Joseph's 'The Brown Bomber', which pays homage to the historic boxing match between Joe Lewis and Max Schmelling in 1938.

And Katie meets composer Sally Beamish who is in the middle of a new work for Northern Ballet inspired by Hans Andersen's story of The Little Mermaid. Sally's previous ballet, inspired by Shakespeare's The Tempest and written for David Bintley, has recently enjoyed a revival with Houston Ballet. Sally shares some of her thoughts about what makes effective ballet music and explains some of her working methods with reference to her two full length scores.

The Classic Score of the Week is John Lanchbery's music for The Tales of Beatrix Potter.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

The Nutcracker20171216Katie Derham considers a seasonal favourite - Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker. She looks at its journey from the short story by ETA Hoffmann, via Alexandre Dumas, to the ballet stage and talks to conductor Paul Murphy of the Birmingham Royal Ballet about the nature of Tchaikovsky's music and how, as a conductor, he sets about shaping it to make it work for the dancers.

Katie Derham presents discussion on a seasonal favourite - The Nutcracker.

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.

The Poetry Of The Puppet20180929Katie Derham looks at some of the natural links between dance and puppetry and the kinds of things that dance has and can learn from animating the inanimate. Katie looks at how puppets have been depicted in dance; how puppets have appeared alongside dancers in the ballet and considers the similarities and differences between puppet and puppeteer and choreographer and dancer.

Katie talks to Puppeteer and Artistic Director of The Curious School of Puppetry, Sarah Wright, about the relationship between dance and puppetry and about what the two can learn from each other. The programme also features Brazilian dancer/choreographer Duda Paiva whose work explores the fusion between dance and puppets, as can be seen in his company's latest production, and interpretation of Purcell's 'The Fairy Queen'.

Music featured in the programme includes Copp退lia, La Boutique Fantasque; Alice In Wonderland and the Classic Score of the Week is Stravinsky's Petroushka.

Katie Derham looks at the relationship between dance and puppetry

Katie Derham explores the relationship between music and dance in a variety of genres.