Rambert Grades Unveils New Contemporary Solos to Inspire the Next Generation of Dancers  

Rambert Grades is proud to announce the launch of a new collection of contemporary dance solos, choreographed by celebrated Guest Choreographers Matthew Bourne, Vidya Patel, Will Tuckett and ZooNation. Entitled ‘Storytellers Performance Pathway’, this addition to the syllabus offers dance teachers and students worldwide an unparalleled opportunity to engage with choreography from leading voices in contemporary dance. 

Designed for dancers aged 7+ across Grades 1–5, the new Pathway introduces five solos featuring adapted extracts from iconic works, alongside brand-new creations. 

Highlights of the new Pathway include solos by world-renowned choreographer Matthew Bourne, giving students the opportunity to learn extracts from New Adventures' The Car Man and Swan Lake.

Matthew Bourne, Artistic Director of New Adventures, said, “We are thrilled that the productions that New Adventures have developed over the years can now inspire young dancers through the brilliant Rambert Grades contemporary dance syllabus. It’s a unique opportunity for students to delve into the worlds of The Car Man and Swan Lake and connect their training to what they see on world-class stages and truly experience the joy of storytelling through movement." 

Also included are Some Like It Hip Hop from ZooNation and new choreography by Vidya Patel and Will Tuckett, including a solo inspired by Carnival of the Animals.

Guest Choreographer Will Tuckett, who has created a new solo for Grade 2 said, “The name Rambert is known throughout the dance world for its huge history of exceptional dance, creativity and learning. I’m over the moon to have been able to reimagine some of Saint-Saëns great, evocative classical score, Carnival of the Animals to inspire the next generation of young dancers through my work with Rambert Grades.” 

The new addition represents a significant milestone for Rambert Grades' Creative Contemporary Dance Syllabus, spanning from Creative Movers through to Grade 8. Built on a foundation of professional practice, the syllabus empowers students to explore their individuality and creativity while developing technical and performance skills essential to contemporary dance today. Rambert Grades is recognised by Ofqual, ensuring rigorous standards and recognition within the educational framework. Rambert Grades Trained Teachers are equipped to nurture the whole person, delivering a teaching approach deeply connected to the professional dance industry.

Abigail Reeve, CEO of Rambert Grades, added “Rambert Grades has carved out a reputation as a leading international provider of contemporary dance examinations and we know that these new solos will offer students another wonderful experience.  We are delighted to be collaborating with more of the leading lights of the dance world with our Performance Pathway and look forward to seeing the journey for our young people”. 

Deliver the Storytellers Solos

Booking is now open for the inaugural Storytellers Pathway online courses on 1-2 March 2025 and 26-27 April 2025.

The Storytellers Performance Pathway is offered as a Bolt-On, available in two groupings: Level 1 (Grades 1-3) and Level 2 (Grades 4-5). These Bolt-On courses are exclusively available to Rambert Grades members who have previously trained, or are currently booked to train, in the syllabus for the corresponding level.