SOCIETY SAYS

about society says

This work examines the societal pressures placed on young women, exploring how these influences shape their identities, compel conformity, and create ever-changing expectations that are often unattainable.

Drawing on the concept of the game ‘Simon Says,’ we collaborated with dancers to reflect on what they perceive as 'Society Says' in relation to how they are expected to present themselves, the impact of hormonal changes, and the roles they are assigned by others. Their reflections were then integrated by musicians Cate Ferris and Bobbie Johnson into the composition of the first musical piece, making their thoughts and opinions an integral part of this piece.

Throughout the piece, there is a transition from young people conforming to society's expectations to rejecting those norms and discovering their true sense of self, drawing strength from their unified female energy. Alongside this, the narrative explores how female identities and femininity do not necessarily align exclusively, and how the interplay of femininity and masculinity manifests differently in each individual.

WATCH A SMALL SECTION HERE:

creative team

Choreography: Ellie Bishop-Williams 

Associate choreographers: Josie Sayers, Sylvie Webb and Project Female Company Dancers

Producer and costume design: Pip Sayers

Music: ‘Society Says’ by Cate Ferris and Bobbie Johnson, ‘Umi’ by Alewya

Photography: James Keates and Rosie Powell