Dance duo step to success

Studying at Teesside University set Gabriella Garroway and Sophie Read on the road to Europe as part of their degree.

The pair, who are about to start the final year of the BA (Hons) Dance at Teesside, spent time in Berlin this summer.

Sophie and Gabriella, who became friends within the first weeks of beginning their degree course, travelled to the Ernst Busch Academy of Dramatic Arts (Hochschule für Schauspielkunst ‘Ernst Busch’) through an exchange trip organised through the University’s Erasmus scheme.

Gabriella, 20, of Sunderland, said: 'We travelled to Berlin in March and although my Erasmus finished in July and Sophie returned to England, I stayed until early September to work on a placement as part of my third year of study at Teesside.

'Spending time in Berlin was such an unforgettable experience. I have learned so much being here, not only for my studies but for my independence too.'

Gabriella added: 'We saw lots of dance performances in Berlin, there is so much going on. We also went to the Tanz Kongress in Dusseldorf, where there was lots of lectures and performances from choreographers and dance academics, which provided a great chance to network with other dance artists in the industry.'

Before heading to Berlin, they auditioned for Youth Dance England, which aims to engage young people in dance. It came after dance practitioner Debbie Waistell visited the University to talk about her work with Youth Dance England.

Since securing a place with Youth Dance England they have performed in schools across the North East. Sophie, from Leicester, said: 'One of the best features of the course is that the lecturers encourage us to take opportunities.'

Gabriella added: 'It's been a great experience. I’ve performed at an event at the Arc in Stockton and taught at a workshop for disabled and non-disabled dancers, which provided valuable experience of teach dance in a real life environment.'

Both say they decided to study at Teesside as they found it so welcoming. Gabriella said: 'I came to an open day, which really helped me make my decision about where to study. My time at Teesside University has been everything I wanted and more. I have made some great friends here and the staff are brilliant.

'Without Teesside University I don’t think I would make it in the dance industry.'

Teesside University is holding an open day on 12 September for students who are yet to confirm a university place for this year to find out more about what courses are still available. For more information visit www.tees.ac.uk/visitus.