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Magpie Dance

25th June until 23rd July 2002

An exhibition of photographs taken by Phil Polglaze will be shown at the Ripley Arts Centre. It charts the fascinating story of MAGPIE DANCE - from its first professional residency in 1992 to the present - a special documentation of nearly a decade of work.

Magpie Dance is a group of dancers with learning disabilities who give performances and undertake dance classes and workshops across London and surrounding areas. Their aim is to encourage all people, regardless of their ability, to take a full and integrated part in the artistic life of the community.

Magpie Dance have given performances at the South Bank Centre, the Royal Albert Hall, the Barbican, the Churchill Theatre, the Laban Centre and more recently the Bloomsbury Theatre. The innovative approach has been widely acclaimed in the world of dance and by Magpie's patron, Richard Wilson. The exhibition is expected to attract a wide audience.

The photographer, Phil Polglaze, has been associated with Magpie Dance since 1992. His chronicle of everyday life shows a profound awareness and skill in 'catching the moment' for others to share through his pictures.

' Magpie is a group of dancers who amazed me by their positive approach to movement. In my role as photographer I was offered a visual challenge to capture on film the spirit they give to their audiences' (Artery Nov-Dec 2001 pg.3 P.Polglaze)

For details about Magpie Dance contact;
Avril Hitman, Artistic Director: 020 8467 3331.
Phil Polglaze can be contacted on 020 8693 7404

To view the exhibition please telephone the Administrator on 0208 464 5816. Or just come along to the Open Evening on Wednesday 26th June 7.30-9.30pm

Patron: Richard Wilson OBE

Magpie Dance is a Company Limited by Guarantee.
Registered in England and Wales No. 3292609

Registered Office: 2 Yester Road, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 5LT. Registered Charity No: 1062185