Call for dancers to bring historic Leeds house to life in special performance

Temple Newsam House will host an open workshop on June 2, where visitors will get the chance to find out more about a special performance that will use dance and movement to highlight some of the house’s historic features.

Shelley Dring, Temple Newsam’s learning and access officer, said: “The experience of creating dance in a particular place is a specific way of thinking about body, space, image and imagination.

“The performance will animate the space, highlight its beauty, and allow visitors to have a different feel about the venue.”

The dance, which will take place this summer, will also make its way into the gardens, which have evolved over 300 years as different owners have occupied the iconic Tudor Jacobean mansion.

Those taking part will get to learn more about the story of one of the city’s most famous locations as well as meet new people, learn some new moves and stay fit and active.

Councillor Brian Selby, Leeds City Council’s lead member for museums and galleries, said: “The house and landscape at Temple Newsam are part of the city’s identity and it’s wonderful that we are celebrating the history of such a beautiful and much-loved location.

“This dance performance will be a unique and vibrant experience that will help bring centuries of heritage to life.”

The upcoming dance performance coincides with the house’s current ‘Visioning the Landscape’ exhibition, which marks the 300th anniversary of the birth of world-renowned landscape designer Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown.

The exhibition, which runs until October 30, has seen benches placed throughout the house’s 43 rooms where visitors can take in some of the estate’s beautiful views.

A collection of art, ceramics and textiles are also on display, including a 3D model of Capability Brown’s proposed alterations to the site.