A critically acclaimed professional hip hop dance theatre company has joined an Oxford theatre as its company-in-residence.

Body Politic has joined Pegasus Theatre in East Oxford and will facilitate its hip hop dance classes for people aged 8-25 as well as work with the theatre on a range of projects.

Artistic director of Body Politic, Emma-Jane Greig, said: “Pegasus has such a special place in my heart. As a teenager, I was involved in Pegasus’ Youth Dance Company. It was a place which ignited my passion for dance and gave me the confidence to pursue it professionally.

“I feel very fortunate to now be working in partnership with Pegasus, and hope that through participating in one of our programmes, we can empower the next generation of young dancers.

“We’ve got lots of exciting things already in the pipeline from regular classes, dance leadership programmes to youth training opportunities. This is just the beginning!”

Oxford Mail: Pegasus Theatre in East Oxford Pegasus Theatre in East Oxford

Body Politic is a flagship female-led organisation, whose work empowers the voices of under-represented communities both on and off the stage. They are passionate about bringing cultural experiences to those facing significant barriers.

Creative learning director of Pegasus Theatre, John McCraw, said: “Pegasus is thrilled to be working in partnership with Body Politic to deliver hip hop classes for young people and build the profile of hip hop and street dance as an art form in the city and beyond. We are looking forward to working together on several initiatives that will enrich the lives of young people through our combined expertise, experience, and shared values.”

Body Politic spring term of hip hop classes at Pegasus is available to book now, including Hip Hop Juniors for ages 8-11, Hip Hop Seniors for ages 11-15, and Hip Hop Crew for ages 16-25.

Hip Hop Crew is for more experienced dancers and offers a chance to learn the artistic and choreographic processes Body Politic adopts when creating professional work.

Oxford Mail: Children taking part in classes at Pegasus Theatre. Picture: Anna Sturrock. Children taking part in classes at Pegasus Theatre. Picture: Anna Sturrock.

There are a limited number of free supported places available for the Pegasus-based classes for young people who face significant financial barriers.

Claire Thompson, director of Dancin’ Oxford and arts development officer for Oxford City Council added: “Body Politic’s performance works feeds seamlessly through to their education work, developing and encouraging the talents of the younger generation, with inspiring and talented role models.

“They are a company both Dancin’ Oxford and Oxford City Council’s Culture Team are proud to support.”

As well as professional touring, Body Politic runs enrichment participation programmes which consist of regular classes, workshops, leadership training, and internships.