These recent times have been some of the hardest challenges we've faced and as a community, it hit us pretty hard. However during these difficult times, here at Pocket Size Theatre, we wanted to spread a little positivity and celebrate the work that people are still managing to generate during these difficult times. In this ‘Spotlight On’ series, we'll be speaking to our friends in the industry to share what they are up to during these challenging times and how you can be involved.
Let's stick together, share the love and get through this as a community!
Here we chatted with Ella Mesma from ‘Ella Mesma Company’, a diaspora dance theatre company.
Can you give us a little intro into who are and what you do?
My name is Ella, and I created Ella Mesma Company to make work that reflected my background in Afro-Latin, Breaking and Contemporary dance. I love to work with the dances of the Orishas, contemporary and Hip Hop styles to create theatre collaboratively with my company. I am super inspired by dance as a healing ritual, as a path for transformation and for change. I have a holistic approach to creativity and love to connect with my audience through discussions and play (whilst ensuring the audience never feel pressured to join in!)
What made you want to start Ella Mesma Company?
I have always been creative, but didn’t start dance until late. In 2011 I was invited to create and perform a solo called Evol at Breaking Convention (Sadlers Wells), and this was the birth of the company. It was important for me to reach those who wouldn’t necessarily have a background in theatre. As a woman of mixed heritage, I wanted my artistic voice, and the voice of others who are under-represented to be heard on stage.
