100 years of women’s suffrage was marked at London’s Victoria Station on 6 February 2018, exactly 100 years to the day since the passing of the Representation of the People Act that saw some women receive the vote for the first time.
A unique and moving dance premiere was performed in the bustling station from where the renowned suffragette, Emily Davison, took the now infamous journey to Epsom racecourse in June 1913. Performers included Combination’s professional company dancers, vocational students from Rambert School and some local community performers from West London. They tell the story of the suffragettes and the progress that has been made over the last century. Please see the film above and photo gallery below.
“100nehundred” was created by Combination Dance Company and funded by Victoria Business Improvement District. Special thanks also go to The National Archives and Rambert School. Choreography by Anne-Marie Smalldon, costume design by Mike Lees, Sound design by Mark Franks including an original composition by Heather Sterland an associate of Trinity College, London.
Also on 6 February a new short film was unveiled, ‘Deeds Not Words’ – named after the motto of The Suffragettes. This is a short film that looks at the final journey made by Emily Davison who left from Victoria Station on day she was fatally injured at Epsom Downs racecourse at the Derby. It includes historic footage from The National Archives to raise awareness of the centenary as well as an emotive and poetic portray of Emily by dance artist Chloe Mead.
Thanks go to key sponsor Victoria BID and The National Archives as well as on location support from The Jockey Club at Epsom Downs Racecourse.
‘Deeds Not Words’ was choreographed by Anne-Marie Smalldon, costume design by Mike Lees and musical composition by Phillip Smethurst
The 100nehundred Dance Project will continue in the summer with over 1000 local London school children who will take part in workshops culminating in a schools’ celebration at The National Archives building in Kew on July 4 2018. Many thanks go to Theatre Manager Daniel Dar-Nell for his technical support throughout this project.
About The National Archives: The National Archives looks after and makes available to the public its collection of historical records dating back more than 1,000 years, including records as diverse as Domesday Book and MI5 files. They are a world-leading cultural heritage organisation which promotes public accessibility to iconic documents such as Guy Fawkes’ confession, Shakespeare’s Will and Edward VIII’s letter of abdication, while ensuring preservation for generations to come. They also host talks, conferences and have an expanding events programme. The National Archives is a non-ministerial government department whose parent is the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). They are the official archive of the UK government, and England and Wales.
Follow @UkNatArchives on Twitter or look at our website www.nationalarchives.gov.uk
About Victoria Business Improvement District (BID): Victoria Business Improvement District is a business-led and business funded body formed to support economic growth in Victoria and to create a vibrant destination for those who work, visit or live in the area. Formed in 2010 following a ballot of local businesses, the BID’s business partners determine the work programmes that contribute to the local economy and enhance the area. Work is focused around five themes: Clean & Green, Safe & Secure, Sustainable Prosperity, Destination Victoria and Public Realm. Now in its second term, Victoria BID is recognised as one of the most innovative BIDs in the capital, with its projects contributing to the ongoing transformation of Victoria.
About Rambert School: Rambert School has an international reputation for delivering elite vocational dance training. The equal emphasis on ballet and contemporary dance is arguably unique within the UK and the curriculum is enriched by input from guest artists and choreographers. Throughout the School’s history of almost one hundred years the creative energy and spirit of its founder, Marie Rambert, have endured. Graduates are characterised by their individuality, creativity, artistic expression and strong technique. They can be found in all areas of the profession as dancers, choreographers, teachers, academics, producers and directors. https://www.rambertschool.org.uk
About The Jockey Club: Epsom Downs Racecourse is part of the Jockey Club, which stages thrilling sporting occasions including The Randox Health Grand National, The Cheltenham Festival and The Investec Derby. Millions of people every year enjoy the special experiences we offer through racing, music, food and entertainment. Governed by Royal Charter, every penny we make goes back into British Racing to help the sport thrive. We were founded in 1750 and today we are the largest commercial group in Britain’s second-biggest spectator sport, operating 15 racecourses nationwide, The National Stud, Jockey Club Estates, Jockey Club Catering, Jockey Club Live and our charity, Racing Welfare. For more information visit www.thejockeyclub.co.uk.
