In Conversation with Daniel Davidson

Central’s MA Choreography is an industry relevant, research-based course aimed at helping professional and emerging choreographers to develop their portfolio. Central spoke to MA Choreography student Daniel Davidson about his experience of the course.

Hello Daniel, please can you tell us a bit about your background in dance and what made you want to start choreographing?

I have always been interested in the creative process. During my time dancing with both Scottish Ballet and Rambert I developed an interest in choreography and began experimenting with friends in my free time. Both companies allowed platforms in which the dancers could create which I very much enjoyed. I decided to leave my full-time dancing career in 2022 to focus on and develop my choreographic language and voice.

How would you describe your choreographic style?
My voice is a blend of many experiences I had during my dancing career. Having had experience in both ballet and contemporary companies, my language borrows from many styles and incorporates my own individuality whilst staying rooted in the classical ballet technique.

Why did you want to pursue an MA in Choreography?
I wanted to learn and develop my language in a supportive and non-competitive environment. The goal was to continue my exploration of my own practice and the MA offered a chance for me to do this in a way that I can reflect on my progress and development.

Why did you choose Central for your MA Choreography?
I was interested in framing the MA around classical technique. Having trained classically and danced in a ballet company, I was keen to explore my language and study within the context of a ballet school.

Please can you tell us a bit about the workshops and projects you have worked on so far as part of the MA?
At the beginning of 2023, I led five weekly workshops with the first-year students at Central School of Ballet. These workshops were an opportunity for me to explore and try things with no expectation of a successful outcome. I found these to be particularly useful as it was the first time in my development that I had been allowed so much freedom. I tried working in many ways and experimented using different practices which aided and helped guide my development.
In the summer I created a work for the first years that was performed as part of their summer programme. I used elements of the workshops to develop the final piece.

How has your experience been so far of studying the MA at Central?
The MA has been an extremely rewarding experience and has contributed to my development as a creator. The leaders and staff have been extremely encouraging and supportive and the course has been valuable in allowing me the opportunity to question and reflect on my own practice.

Please can you tell us about your experience of working professionally whilst also studying for your MA?

Whilst studying, I have been creating works for other establishments and organisations. The work I have done as part of the MA has been valuable in guiding my new creations and has encouraged me and given me confidence in my voice.

 

How has your choreography developed since starting the course?

I think my voice has become more unique. The MA has encouraged me to approach my work unapologetically.

 

How do you feel this experience will influence your career as a choreographer?

The experience has been invaluable. I have had many discoveries about myself, my language, and the ways in which I want to work which I will continue to use and explore in my future as a choreographer.

Find out more about the MA Choreography and how to apply here.