Ten of Swindon’s most promising young dancers are preparing to share the stage with professional performers in a thought-provoking new production exploring the human cost of austerity and its impact on mental health.
The dancers, from Swindon Dance CAT and Swindon Youth Dance Co, will perform Even the Devil has Demons at Swindon Dance on Saturday, 1 August at 4pm, following an intensive three-day rehearsal programme with the award-winning Caitlin Barnett Company.
Working alongside professional artists, the young performers have just 72 hours to learn and refine the demanding contemporary commercial production before presenting it to a live audience.
The result promises to be an energetic and emotionally charged performance that examines themes of isolation, loneliness and community through the language of dance.
Rather than offering easy answers, Even the Devil has Demons takes a hard look at modern Britain, exploring how emotional austerity can ripple through society, from the pressures associated with elite private education to the wider effects on mental health and social connection.
Driven by bold choreography and striking physical performances, the production aims to encourage discussion about resilience, wellbeing and the challenges facing communities today.
Caitlin Barnett said the project demonstrated both the commitment and ability of Swindon’s young dancers.
“To go from day one of rehearsals to performing alongside industry professionals in just 72 hours is a testament to the immense talent within Swindon’s youth dance community.
“This show isn’t just about high-calibre contemporary dance—it’s about giving local young people a platform to tackle issues like isolation and austerity that directly affect their generation.”
The performance will take place in the intimate studio theatre at Swindon Dance, offering audiences the chance to experience professional-standard contemporary dance in a close-up setting where every movement and emotion is felt.
For the young dancers involved, it is an opportunity not only to perform alongside established professionals but also to develop their skills through an intensive creative process that mirrors the demands of the professional dance world.
The collaboration highlights the strength of Swindon’s thriving dance community and its commitment to nurturing emerging talent while bringing ambitious, challenging work to local audiences.
Even the Devil has Demons will be performed at Swindon Dance on Saturday, 1 August at 4pm.
