We are proud to share this powerful and moving work by Jake Nwogu, one of the original dancers of Ballet Black when it was founded in 2001. Jake has gone on to have an incredible career in dance, television and film, and has used his considerable experience to create this short film. Thank you Jake for allowing us to share this with our audience.
“For Those Who Struggle With Life.” – A collaboration between Dancer & actor Jake Nwogu and Filmmaker & Director Dan Lowenstein, with Music by Mad EP
‘During a difficult period of my life, I had a series of panic attacks, to a point that my body shook uncontrollably. Sometimes I was so broken that I couldn’t focus my mind, and other times my mind worked but the shaking continued. I asked Film Maker Daniel Lowenstein to capture one of these episodes.
The symptoms in this film are genuine and I continued to shake between takes. However, I managed to use the shaking to inform some of the movement.
With the awful moments comes amazing life lessons.
Therefore life is always amazing, even if it doesn’t seem to be at the time.’ – Jake Nwogu
Directed, Shot & Cut by Dan Lowenstein – Film Director
Music by Mad EP
#BBonFilm #BalletBlack
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Ballet Black is Britain’s most diverse and daring ballet company. Not only do we advocate for black and Asian dancers, we are also one of the most prolific commissioners of new work in the country. As part of our Circle of Friends, you will be making a valuable contribution to the sustainability of our small yet hugely significant company, and will be supporting our on-going commitment to dancers, choreographers, and aspiring students from our Junior School and Associate Programme.
Ballet Black is Britain’s most diverse and daring ballet company. Not only do we advocate for black and Asian dancers, we are also one of the most prolific commissioners of new work in the country. As part of our Circle of Friends, you will be making a valuable contribution to the sustainability of our small yet hugely significant company, and will be supporting our on-going commitment to dancers, choreographers, and aspiring students from our Junior School and Associate Programme. Our Friends benefit from a range of exclusive activities, including watching company class, being invited to behind-the-scenes events such as rehearsals or choreographic insights, and an invitation to the annual Company Party.
By joining our Circle of Friends you will become an integral part of Ballet Black’s incredibly exciting future!
Thandie Newton OBE
Patron, Ballet Black