David Jackson OBE 1955-2025

National Youth Arts Wales reflects on the life and loss of David Jackson OBE with sorrow, affection and profound gratitude.

David was Chair of National Youth Arts Wales from October 2017 until this summer. During this time, he led the organisation through its formative years – initially focussing on leadership of the five ground-breaking National Youth Ensembles of Wales, and then broadening its remit to embrace other art forms, championing the importance of high quality and collective creativity for all young people. He was always determined that nobody would be “left behind”, for reasons of disability or financial hardship in particular. Many thousands of young people from throughout Wales have directly benefitted from NYAW’s projects, ensembles and performances as a result.

"David’s cheerful insight, friendship and calm determination brought people together, and showed that extraordinary things are possible. Central to his vision was that young people of every background should access the life-changing experiences of artistic, collective creativity.

David believed in us – so we will continue believing, ensuring his legacy resonates for generations to come. But we will all miss him deeply.”

- Evan Dawson, CEO National Youth Arts Wales

David’s impact on the arts world in Wales and beyond is incredible. He was perhaps best-known as the Artistic Director of BBC Cardiff Singer of the World, which became one of the most highly regarded classical singing competitions in the world under his stewardship.

He had also been a producer, executive producer and commissioner of television and radio for the BBC and the independent sector. His programmes won many awards including a Primetime Emmy, BAFTAs, the Rose d’Or, SONY Awards, several Golden Prague and Vienna TV Awards and many nominations.

Previous posts included Head of Music at BBC Wales, Vice Principal at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Acting Director of the BBC National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales, and Managing Director of the National Children’s Orchestras of Great Britain.

In addition to his professional work, David served for a number of years as a Trustee and Chair of the Cultural Committee of the Wales Millennium Centre. He was a trustee of the chamber orchestra Sinfonia Cymru, sat on the Governors’ Music Committee of Wells Cathedral School, and was a Governor of Ysgol y Deri Special School in Sully. He was Chair of the Forget-Me-Not Chorus for people with dementia and their carers. He was awarded an OBE for services to music in the Platinum Birthday Honours in June 2022.

David died peacefully during the morning of Friday 17 October 2025. Our thoughts are with his wife Anne and their two grown-up children.

National Youth Arts Wales would welcome any comments about your memories of David, to be sent to nyaw@nyaw.org.uk which we will publish and share with his family. We will also launch a new award for young singers, entitled The David Jackson Award, in partnership with other arts organisations in Wales. More details soon.

National Youth Arts Wales launches Creative Futures project to bring free Music and Dance workshops to young people in Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen

The ambitious, cross-sector initiative led by National Youth Arts Wales and funded by the Welsh Government’s Child Poverty Innovation Fund, launches this Saturday in South East Wales. 
 
Creative Futures aims to tackle the deep-rooted inequalities in access to creative and wellbeing opportunities for disadvantaged young people in Torfaen and Blaenau Gwent – two of the most opportunity deprived areas in Wales.  

Working with several partners including Ballet Cymru, Public Health Wales and Gwent Music Services, we will be offering young people aged 10-18 a series of co-designed free workshops from November 2025 through to March 2026 across six venues.   

Louise Prosser of Ballet Cymru says: “Ballet Cymru is thrilled to be partnering with National Youth Arts Wales to bring fun, accessible, and exciting dance and music sessions to six new communities. We can’t wait to connect with young people, spark creativity, and build lasting relationships through the Creative Futures project.” 

Simon Linton of Gwent Music says: “It is fantastic to be working with NYAW’s on the Creative Futures project. At last, we are seeing joined up thinking right through the music education pyramid. This is such a worthwhile project that will bring a huge amount to the students involved!” 

The two-hour weekly workshops led by leading dance, music and creative industry professionals will provide young people in the area with skills in singing and songwriting, music production, dance and choreography, as well as wellbeing and creative skills. Participants can choose to take part in some or all the activities. 

National Youth Arts Wales’ Creative Futures Project Manager, Bruna Garcia, says: "It's so important that every young person gets the opportunity to develop their creativity and build their confidence. Creative Futures will be a safe space where everyone can explore their interest in music, dance and gain valuable skills all while having fun!" 

If you are, or know, a young person between the ages of 10-18 and are based in Blaenau Gwent or Torfaen, we would love to hear from you... 

 Why join? 

• Work with leading professionals in dance, music, and creative industries 

• Learn new skills, make friends, and build confidence 

• Perform, showcase, and explore your creative potential 

• Refreshments provided 

 Could you be a part of our Youth Advisory Panel? 

We are also searching for a group of diverse young people aged 14-18 to help shape Creative Futures and ensure that the project is relevant and accessible to your community.   

You will help to shape project design, ensure accessibility and encourage community engagement. As well as advise on marketing, and act as project ambassadors to your peers.  

We believe youth voice should be at the centre of what we do so we want to hear from you!  

• Have your say: Help shape an exciting music & dance project for young people in your area.  

• Gain experience: Leadership skills, event planning, creative decision-making.  

• Get rewarded: Travel covered, refreshments provided, reference for future opportunities, love to shop voucher.  

• Make an impact: Influence what the Creative Futures workshops look like and how we reach young people.  

Beyond the Mirror: National Youth Dance Wales member’s bold documentary challenges dance industry beauty standards

Through her documentary Beyond the Mirror, National Youth Dance Wales (NYDW) 2025 Member, Phoebe Clark, is amplifying the voices of young dancers determined to redefine the dance industry. Rooted in her own experiences, the documentary challenges harmful beauty standards and empowers young dancers to embrace their worth beyond physical appearance. With the support of NYDW - a space where young artists are celebrated for who they are - Phoebe is encouraging others to engage in a conversation that celebrates authenticity, resilience, and talent.  
 
“I created my documentary Beyond the Mirror as part of my university dissertation, but it quickly became much more than an academic project. It was a deeply personal journey; an opportunity to challenge the norms of the dance industry and ignite a movement toward change.” 

Photo by Sian Trenberth

“Countless other dancers have faced similar judgment and pressure. Beyond the Mirror became a platform to give voice to these stories and to advocate for a more inclusive, supportive, and realistic vision of what it means to be a dancer.”  

“NYDW has always been a place where I’ve felt truly safe, valued, and seen, not for how I look, but for who I am and what I bring as an artist. It has a family-like atmosphere that prioritizes the inner qualities: your purpose, purity, talent, and personality, rather than your appearance or how you dress. When I was 16, at a time when I was hearing things no young person should have to hear, NYDW became my anchor. It kept me dancing. Whether they knew it or not, the support and reassurance I received from them reminded me that I was talented and worthy, and that meant everything.” 

National Youth Arts Wales’s Head of Dance, Jamie Jenkins said:

“Phoebe’s documentary is a powerful and deeply moving reflection on the realities of navigating the performing arts industry with diverse physiques and appearances. Her honesty and courage in sharing her personal journey are nothing short of inspiring. By speaking out with such vulnerability and strength, she is not only owning her story but also lighting the way for others to stand up, reach out, and challenge harmful behaviours. At NYDW, we are proud to champion individuality, celebrate diversity, and nurture a community where everyone feels seen, supported, and empowered to be exactly who they are.” 

Photo by Sian Trenberth

“This year, I’m excited to connect with more dancers, work with choreographer Yukiko Masui, and to take our piece to London for a performance at Sadler’s Wells East. It’s a remarkable opportunity. I’m looking forward to training alongside like-minded individuals and immersing myself in an environment filled with exceptional talent and shared passion.”, says Dancer, Performer and Teacher, Phoebe Clark. 

National Youth Dance Wales marks 25 years in 2025 and was celebrated with a special performance at Sadler’s Wells East on 25th July – earning a standing ovation and rousing applause. The dance ensemble return to Wales for two performances at The Riverfront, Newport, on 30th and 31st October with Ballet Cymru. For more information and to book tickets, click here.  

Watch Phoebe’s documentary below…

Outstanding Dance Made in Wales: Ballet Cymru and National Youth Dance Wales Present an Autumn Triple Bill

Ballet Cymru will be hosting an exciting collaboration with National Youth Dance Wales (NYDW) in a shared triple bill at The Riverfront, Newport, on Thursday 30 and Friday 31 October.  

Showcasing three extraordinary short works by world-class choreographers, the evening features Momentum – Undone by Marcus Jarrell Willis, Artistic Director of Phoenix Dance Theatre, known for his signature blend of humour and seamless musicality. Ballet Cymru Artistic Directors Darius James OBE and Amy Doughty present a brand-new creation, Woven, especially for this programme.  

Celebrating 25 years of National Youth Dance Wales, the young dancers return as special guests for the third consecutive year, performing The Night is Darkest Just Before The Dawn by acclaimed choreographer Yukiko Masui, which showcases powerful movement, blending Contemporary, Hip Hop, and Martial Arts. The piece is described as a tribute to ‘quiet champions’ - people who stand beside us in life’s darkest moments and support us without recognition. 

Talking about the piece, Masui said: “This piece was inspired by a superhero character, where they are so powerful but they’re working in the darkest nighttime, so it’s not like you get a spotlight to shine but it’s about doing something for others and being a powerful figure when nobody is watching you.” 

U.Dance National Festival 2025 at Sadler’s Wells East presented by One Dance UK, photo Dance Photographer UK/Point of View Photography. 

Under the direction of Yukiko Masui and Jamie Jenkins, Head of Dance at National Youth Arts Wales, the company has been nurtured through a variety of technique classes, creative exploration sessions, wellbeing classes and mentorships, largely delivered by NYDW alumni.  

National Youth Dance Wales 2025 member Carlie, from Neath, said: “It’s finally October and that means that NYDW’s performance is only a few weeks away and we can’t wait! I am excited for this performance because we get to share the stage with the amazing Ballet Cymru. This performance feels extra special, as the company are reunited to perform in Wales, representing our country, sharing our passion and hard work with the audience. We hope to see you all there at Newport Riverfront Theatre on October the 30th and 31st!”  

 National Youth Dance Wales 2025 member Jack, from Swansea said: “I’m so excited to be performing again with National Youth Dance Wales this October. It’s such an amazing opportunity to share the stage with such talented dancers and to perform work by choreographer Yukiko Masui. I can’t wait to bring all our hard work to life and share this experience with the audience. I'm so proud to be a dancer of National Youth Dance Wales.” 

During the summer, NYDW’s 25th Year company came together in Cardiff for an intensive two-week residency to create and rehearse the extended version of the work before heading to Sadler’s Wells East, London, for its premiere alongside National Youth Dance Company Scotland and National Youth Dance Company, where they received a standing ovation. 

For your final chance to catch this special performance, book your tickets today. Ticket prices are set between £17 and £20, with concessions available.   

U.Dance National Festival 2025 at Sadler’s Wells East presented by One Dance UK, photo Dance Photographer UK/Point of View Photography. 

Congratulations 2025 Orchestra and Brass Band Prize Winners

Each year on our residencies, we celebrate our musicians who display the most promise and dedication. The recipients of each award is decided by the sectional tutors during the residencies.

National Youth Arts Wales would like to express its gratitude to those who have donated money for the creation of these awards.

National Youth Brass Band of Wales

• The John Childs Memorial Trophy

Awarded to the most promising player at this year’s residency

Carys Wood

• The David Mabey Prize

Awarded to the most improved player on the residency

Isla Hawkins

• The Principal Cornet Trophy

In Memory of Tony Small

Stephanie Jonas

National Youth Orchestra of Wales

• The Haydn Davies Award

Awarded to the most promising player still in education

Noah Harcourt-Smith

• The Irwyn Walters (Friends of NYOW) Awards

Awarded to the two most promising string players at this year’s residency

Tristan Xuan and Jemima Soper

• The Wil Jones Prize

Awarded to the most promising woodwind player at this year’s residency

Sam Finch

• The Goronwy Evans Award

Awarded to the most promising brass player at this year’s residency

Tom Evans

• The Tony Moore Harp Prize

Awarded to the most promising harpist at this year’s residency

Heledd Wynn-Newton

• The Tony Moore Percussion Prize

Awarded to the most promising percussionist at this year’s residency

Carys Underwood

• The Welfare Team Prize

For overall contribution to the Orchestra

Gwydion Rhys

Photo by Kirsten McTernan

Your Stage Awaits! NYAW 2026 Music Auditions Now Open

Auditions are officially open for the 2026 National Youth Brass Band, Choir, and Orchestra of Wales. Apply now for your chance to perform alongside Wales’ finest young musicians! 
 
What can you expect as a NYAW member? 

• Receive expert training from top musicians 

• Perform in fantastic venues across Wales 

• Work with internationally renowned conductors 

• Make Wales proud by representing your country 

• Make life-long friends and lasting memories! 
   

Your Stage Awaits! What are you waiting for?

 Audition Deadline: 12 October 2025 

For more information, visit our website or follow us on social media @nationalyouthartswales for updates. 

Photo by James O’Driscoll (2025)

Next Generation of Welsh Performers Are Set To Embark on a Once-in-a-Lifetime Training Experience

This August, fifty young performers from all over Wales will be joined by professional practitioners from within the world of stage and screen for the National Youth Theatre of Wales (NYTW) 2025 summer residency. 

The performers and theatre makers (aged between 16 and 22) will have the exclusive opportunity to get a taste of making work for stage and screen through to scriptwriting, devising work. They will also be delving into other skills and roles within the creative industries, such as audio description, integrating accessibility into productions. Later this year, the NYTW members will explore digital immersive storytelling in the second residency at the Wales Millenium Centre, Cardiff, and heading up to Mold for a further four-day residency with partners Theatr Clwyd later this year. 

Supported by S4C’s Yr Egin - Carmarthenshire's Creative and Digital Centre - the 2025 summer residency will offer a deep dive into the world of performance, both on and off the stage. With collaboration from Theatr Cymru and Ffilm Cymru, the programme will give members access to a vibrant training ground led by some of the industry’s most exciting practitioners, from stage directors, sound designers, movement directors, stage managers, to voice directors, as well as an access and audio description specialist. 

The creative team during the residency include: Playwright and Director Jennifer Lunn, Head of Voice for Acting at RWCMD, Alice White, Movement Director and Choreographer; Annie-Lunnette Deakin-Foster (who has worked extensively with Theatr Clwyd and the Royal Shakespear Company) and former NYTW alumni and Theatr Cymru Artistic Director, Steffan Donnelly, who will be giving an insight into the rehearsal room of upcoming production, Romeo a Juliet. Ffilm Cymru will also be delivering workshops and highlighting the training pathways within the screen industries in Wales.  

Gruffydd Roberts at S4C’s Yr Egin said: “We are extremely proud to work in partnership and support the National Youth Arts of Wales again this year. Nurturing the talent of the future is one of Yr Egin's most important objectives and we are committed to playing a part in the creative development of artists and young people in our county and our country. Welcoming all the young people to the centre to develop and work together will be extremely exciting and we very much look forward to welcoming them once again.” 

Members will hone essential performance skills and industry knowledge in a uniquely supportive and friendly residential experience, creating an opportunity for young performers to learn, work and socialise together in a bilingual environment, supported by an experienced welfare team. 

The programme is supported by Creative Wales and aims to deliver five training strands:  

• Stage and Screen Craft 

• The Joy of Making  

• Pathways+ 

• Backstage and Screen Skills  

• Lab 50  

National Youth Theatre of Wales’ Producer and Head of Theatre Megan Childs, says: 
“The best part of my job is the thrill of seeing brilliant professionals share their craft with young people who will fuel the future of arts in Wales. This year’s programme will be as inspirational as ever for the NYTW members and practitioners alike. Having such strong support from partner venues and companies who throw open their doors and practice to our committed young NYTW members will guarantee a unique NYAW professional residency experience of discovery, creation and play. We can’t wait to get started…” 

Beyond workshops and creative sessions, the residency is a chance to build friendships, collaborate, and be part of a warm and supportive community. Members will also gain mentorship from returning NYTW alumni, supporting the next generation from within. 

NYTW 2025 member, Elliea, says: “I am most excited to continue creating connections and explore theatre from a unique and Welsh lens. The most exciting thing about this project is how it brings every area of Wales together and unites us in something that we each enjoy, being art and expression.”  

Stay tuned as we follow the journeys of these vibrant, young performers. Follow NYTW on Instagram and our member-led TikTok account. 

Summer of Music 2025: NYBBW and NYCW Tours Begin This Week!

This week, the stage belongs to Wales’ brightest young brass and vocal musicians as the National Youth Brass Band of Wales and the National Youth Choir of Wales set off on their 2025 summer tours. 

Fresh from the triumphant performances of the National Youth Orchestra of Wales earlier this month, the spotlight is now on these two exceptional youth ensembles, bringing their energy, skills and passion to concert venues across Wales. 

Join us for National Youth Arts Wales’ Summer of Music 2025 - from the soaring orchestral sweep of the NYOW, to the brilliance of brass, and the splendour of choral music. 

Don't miss your chance to witness the next generation of Welsh musical excellence - book your tickets today! 

National Youth Choir Wales 2025 summer residency

National Youth Brass Band of Wales – Concert Tour 2025 

NYBBW Alumnus and Musical Director of the 2024 Championship Brass Band Flowers, Paul Holland, returns to conduct his former Band in a dazzling programme full of fantastic music that promises something for everyone. Joining Paul and the NYBBW will be the brilliant young percussionist Jordan Ashman - winner of the 2022 BBC Young Musician of the Year 

• 21st August @ 7.30pm – William Aston Hall, Wrexham 

• 22nd August @ 7.30pm – Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Aberystwyth 

• 23rd August @ 2pm – The Riverfront, Newport 

National Youth Brass Band Wales 2025 rehearsals

 National Youth Choir of Wales – Concert Tour 2025 

Experience the power of voice in harmony in spectacular settings. Under the inspiring direction of their conductor Tim Rhys-Evans, this extraordinary choir of young Welsh talent will deliver a breathtaking performance.

• 23rd August @ 7.30pm – St Asaph Cathedral, Denbighshire 

• 24th August @ 3pm – St Fagans National Museum of History, Cardiff (Free Entry) 

• 25th August @ 3pm – Brangwyn Hall, Swansea 
  

Tickets for our Summer of Music 2025 concerts are on sale via nyaw.org.uk/whats-on 

The Youth Arts Gap: Creative Opportunities Are Essential For Teenagers’ Mental Health

On International Youth Day, National Youth Arts Wales (NYAW) is joining the global call to empower young people.

This year, we are highlighting the stark correlation between limited access to youth arts programs in parts of Wales, and the rising tide of mental health challenges among our teenagers. From Denbighshire to the Valleys, where arts funding is often scarce, young people are missing out on the wealth of creative opportunities that should bolster their wellbeing, resilience and futures. We are calling on the Welsh Government to bridgethis youth arts gap and ensure every Welsh teen has the chance to thrive.

Teenagers today face unprecedented mental health challenges. According to a 2021 UNICEF report, 13% of 15–24-year-olds globally experience mental health disorders, with anxiety and depression leading the way. In Wales, the picture is even worse. A 2023 Welsh Government survey found that 20% of secondary school students reported symptoms of anxiety, with rates higher in economically disadvantaged areas like parts of the South Wales Valleys and rural North Wales. During NYAW’s projects throughout Wales, we are regularly told by primary and secondary school teachers that the figures are even worse, with many estimating that over a third of school children have mental health issues.

The region with the highest reported mental health issues (often marked by underfunded schools and limited community resources) are also where the arts are least accessible - yet most needed. In areas with low arts investment, the absence of creative outlets leaves young people vulnerable, exacerbating mental health struggles.

At NYAW, we’ve seen firsthand how creativity transforms lives. We have a regular series of programmes and project aimed to reach young people in these “cold spots” of Wales. These include Strings Attached, Cor Skills, dance and theatre workshops, and (coming soon) our new Creative Futures project. We are working closely with partners including Public Health Wales, and their landmark Hapus programme.

The Evidence

A 2019 World Health Organization review of over 3,000 studies found that arts participation(whether through music, drama or visual arts) reduces depression, anxiety and stress while boosting self-esteem and social connection. For teenagers, whose brains are still developing, creative activities are like mental exercise, strengthening the prefrontal cortex, which governs problem-solving and emotional regulation.

A 2020 study in the Journal of Youth and Adolescence showed that teens engaged in creative pursuits, like writing or performing, reported lower stress levels and greater confidence. In Wales, where arts funding varies widely by region, the impact is clear.

Urban centres like Cardiff, Monmouth and Swansea offer robust arts programs, with schools and community centres hosting choirs, theatre groups and art classes. But in rural areas like Denbighshire or deprived communities in Blaenau Gwent, arts programmes are often the first to be cut when budgets tighten. Per capita arts funding in some rural local authorities is less than half that of urban areas, leaving teenagers in these regions with fewer opportunities to engage creatively.

This “Youth Arts Gap” has real consequences. A 2019 study in Psychology of Aesthetics, Creativity, and the Arts found that teens with access to arts programs had better mental health outcomes, including lower rates of anxiety and depression. In contrast, areas with limited arts access (often overlapping with economic deprivation) see higher incidences of mental health issues. In Wales, this disparity is stark: communities with the lowest arts investment, like parts of the Valleys, report some of the highest rates of youth mental health referrals.

Voices from Welsh Teenagers

The absence of arts opportunities isn’t just a statistic - it’s a lived reality for Welsh teens.

Across Wales, teens in underserved areas tell us that creative outlets, when available, are lifelines for navigating the pressures of adolescence. These opportunities strengthen social bonds, countering the isolation that often fuels mental health struggles; as well as benefiting their education, physical health and sheer happiness.

Equity and Access

The Youth Arts Gap in Wales is inseparable from broader inequalities. Low-income and rural areas, where arts funding is sparse, also face challenges like limited mental health services, long NHS waiting lists and overstretched schools. A 2022 study in The Lancet Public Health highlighted that socioeconomic deprivation, common in these regions, amplifies mental health risks. When arts programs are absent, teenagers lose a proven tool for coping, leaving them more vulnerable to stress and disconnection.

At NYAW, we believe every teenager deserves access to the arts, regardless of their postcode. Our mission is to provide world-class creative opportunities - but we can’t do it alone. Systemic change is needed to ensure equitable arts funding across Wales. The Welsh Government’s Wellbeing of Future Generations Act calls for a healthier, more equal nation - investing in youth arts may be the most direct way to achieve this.  

National Youth Arts Wales urges policymakers, educators and communities to prioritise arts investment as a mental health strategy for Welsh teenagers. The arts are not a middle-class luxury - they’re a necessity for teenage wellbeing, for young people of every background. At NYAW, we’re committed to closing the Youth Arts Gap, but it takes collective action. This International Youth Day, let’s ensure every Welsh teenager has the chance to create, connect and flourish. Please join us in advocating for a Wales where no young person is left without a rich creative life.

Evan Dawson

CEO, National Youth Arts Wales

12 August 2025

Celtic Collective Dance Partnership Brings Together Rising Talent from Wales and Scotland

National Youth Dance Wales (NYDW) and National Youth Dance Company of Scotland (NYDCS) are proud to continue their Celtic Collective partnership - a dynamic cultural exchange that connects young dancers from both countries through collaborative residencies, performances, and development opportunities.

This year, the partnership sees an exchange between two exceptional young dancers: Eira Diamond from Gwynedd, North Wales, who is studying Maths at Edinburgh University, and Ross Hoey from Glasgow, Scotland. The exchange forms part of a wider effort to build connections between young dancers across the Celtic nations.

Ross said: “My experience has been great coming down to Wales, the stuff is so intense makes you nice and strong and you get so many different teachers, different experiences and movement styles that really broaden your movement.”

Eira joined NYDCS in 2024, following 2-years as a NYDW member, participating in the rehearsals and performances of Weave, choreographed by Anna Kenrick. Since September, she has toured with the company to Stirling, Belfast, and Leeds. Eira returned to Wales to join NYDW’s 25th year company for an intense two-week residency at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in Cardiff earlier in July.

Eira said: “My experience in NYDCS has been amazing. I think for me it's really, really important to branch out your connections outside of just your local area. so obviously I've danced with these Welsh dancers a lot, so it's really great to go and expand those horizons, meet new young dancers who are just as passionate as I am.

It's also been great to have a lot of opportunities to perform because that's what I like doing most and NYDCS offers so many performance opportunities. We're literally on tour basically for the entirety of the summer, dancing in loads of different places, so I'm grateful to have those performing opportunities as well.”

Eira (NYDW) and Ross (NYDCS)

This year saw NYDCS’ Ross join Eira in NYDW’s company, where he worked alongside 21 members – some of the best young dancers across Wales, to produce an extension to renowned choreographer, Yukiko Matsui’s 25-minute piece - “The Night Is Darkest Just Before the Dawn” - which they took to the stage and wowed audiences at Sadler’s Wells East in London last week.

Jamie Jenkins, Producer and Head of Dance at National Youth Dance Wales, said: “It’s been a pleasure continuing our partnership with NYDCS this year and having Ross join the company during an exciting anniversary year for NYDW. We are proud to support the next generation of talented young dancers and look forward to seeing the partnership develop further.”

Anna Kenrick at National Youth Dance Company of Scotland added: “We look forward to the partnership continuing, offering more Scottish and Welsh dancers a range of exciting opportunities in the future.”

NYDCS member, Ross Hoey, will rejoin NYDW for two final performances at The Riverfront, Newport, on 30 and 31 October. The event will also premier a screening of a documentary following this year’s company as part of the celebrations marking 25 Years of National Youth Dance Wales.

NYDCS will also be performing in YDance’s EVOLUTION at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe. Running from 5-10th August, this international alliance of movement and culture showcases the talents of dancers from the both the UK and Estonia, and celebrates the 20th Anniversary of Project Y. 

To find out more about NYDW’s 25 Years celebrations, click here.