Interview: Blackpool Urban Dance Project

Duncan Hodgson chats to Michelle Ramsey and finds out about Blackpool Urban Dance Project.

Duncan: How did you first get into urban dance?

Michelle: I have always loved to dance as far back as I can remember, but my passion for Urban Dance really started when I moved to London to attend dance college. This is where I took my first Streetdance / Urban dance class, and although it was very different to anything I had done before, I thought was great – especially the fact that it was a great dance style it was to the music that I loved. After college I got a contract in Germany, there was a very big underground HipHop Scene here, and I got into Breaking.

Duncan: What do you enjoy most about urban dance?

Michelle: I think it is that there are no limits, no strict rules. You have the freedom to express yourself as you wish, and I try many different styles and a variety of music, anything from Etta James  to Chemicals Brothers to Jay Z and much much more.

Duncan: Can you tell me about the fitness benefits of this kind of dance? 

Michelle: What can I say, apart from being so much fun, the fitness benefits are immense. It’s great for losing weight, burning calories, co-ordination, flexibility and much more. I currently run sessions called Streetdance Workouts and Urban Dance Project Workouts on Facebook – and these classes are suitable for anyone, no dance experience needed. There are a variety of people who come to the sessions all for different reasons, maybe to get fit, love the music, love to dance, or even make new friends. Anyone can learn Urban Dance, you do what you want in the sessions and the main thing is that you enjoy them.

Duncan: What kind of projects have you been involved in previously? 

Michelle: I have done so much, where to start. I’ve choreographed for many major brands including Sony Music, Microsoft, CITV, NSPCC and Sportivate. I choreograph and perform in many shows, and have recently set up UDP Agency, providing work opportunities to young people and I’d encourage people to get in touch if they are interested.

Duncan: You recently took part in the Street Dance Championships, how did the group get on?

Michelle: I am extremely proud of Ryan and Sharnah’s win in The World Streetdance Championships and everyone at UDP can’t wait for the next competition and hopefully more trophies. Winning is great but UDP definitely supports the ethos that it’s the taking part that matters.

Duncan: What projects have you got coming up at the moment and how can people get involved?

Michelle: Our projects include photo shoots, shows and events across Blackpool as well as special events – we performed with Cara Lee at the Blackpool Illuminations Switch On 2012 last month too which was fantastic. Also watch this space for our next Top Secret Flashmob. We are always looking for dancers so if you love to dance, get in touch with us.

Duncan: What was it like having the opportunity to perform at the Switch On?

Michelle: We were made up when asked to perform at the lights switch on – it’s such a great local event. UDP is going from strength to strength and it’s all thanks to the continued support we have locally. We can’t wait to do more events and are currently putting a professional group together for work.

The Urban Dance Project runs classes suitable for everyone on a weekly basis including UDP Kidz, UDP Workouts and Open Classes suitable for advanced dancers and professionals. These take place at various locations throughout Blackpool. For more information visit www.urbandanceproject.co.uk, like UDP on Facebook or follow them on Twitter: @urbandance1. Images courtesy of CJGriffiths Photography.