Sophie.
Thorpe
Dancer|Performer|Teacher|Maker
Photography by David Wilson Clarke
ABOUT
Sophie Thorpe is a UK based freelance contemporary dance artist, performer, teacher and maker. She is also co-founder of Feet off the Ground, a female led dance collective. She believes in the power of dance to heal, transform and inspire and is passionate about the role that movement, expression and creativity plays in people's lives. Sophie holds a BA (Hons) in Contemporary Dance from London Contemporary Dance School and a postgraduate diploma from the Northern School of Contemporary Dance. Sophie's works spans the professional, educational and community sectors.
Photography by Nick Wright
Projects
feet off the ground
Feet off the Ground is a female led contemporary dance collective making innovative and engaging work that is rooted in contact work, connection and collaboration.
The collective specialises in Contact Improvisation and Partner work for research, performance devising and teaching practice. The collective have performed nationally and internationally, making work for theatres, outdoors and unconventional spaces. Performance credits include The Place, Battersea Arts Centre, Chisenhale Dance Space and the OXO Tower. Feet off the Ground are proud to present an ensemble solely managed and performed by women.
Feet off the Ground have taught for London Contemporary Dance School, Rambert, Laban, Balletboyz Dancers Course, Northern School of Contemporary Dance, Dance4, CAT programmes and London Studio Centre.
"These 4 women are so in tune with each other, they don't once put a foot wrong and their mastery of composition and structure is a joy to watch." Jamaal Burkmar, Choreographer
"So grateful to have been part of this very special project. You created such warm and nurturing environment that proved such a tonic for mind, body and spirit.Totally inspiring in a multitude of ways, every single one of you." Lisa Chamberlain - Project participant
Such a privilege to be part of your research process. You made us so welcome and secure and allowed us to love in the moment. Forever grateful." Kathryn McAuley - Project participant
Photography by Barney Spiegel
Teaching
Sophie is passionate about the role that movement, expression and creativity play in peoples lives and has devoted much of her time to her teaching practice.
She has over a decade of teaching knowledge and experience and has taught in professional, educational and community settings to a wide range of ages, abilities and people from varying walks of life. She has the ability to connect and engage people and inspire passion and creativity.
Sophie has taught for some of the UK's leading dance conservatoires, companies and institutions. These include: London Contemporary Dance School, The Place, Northern School of Contemporary Dance, Laban, BalletBoyz, BalletBoyz Dancers Course, CAT Schemes, Chisenhale Dance Space and Dance4.
Sophie can offer bespoke classes and workshops in Contemporary Dance Technique, Floorwork, Contact Improvisation, Improvisation and Creative Workshops. These will be tailored to the specific needs of the group or client. Get in touch for more information and fees.
“Her energy is infectious and Sophie’s classes enabled me not only to work on my flexibility and technique but also to develop a deeper connection with my body.” Anna Kuklewicz
“She is a beautiful dancer with such natural flow, a quality she carries through her teachings and choreographies. A captivating teacher who constantly motivates her students to dance to their full potential. Inspirational all the way!” Venia Polyhronaki.
“It has been a beautiful experience my introduction to contemporary dance with Sophie. From the first day I felt connected to the way she teaches, her vibrant energy and how she communicates with her pupils.” Manuel Pinero
“Her lessons are always fascinating, full of dynamic and flowing energy!” Nikoletta Karachaliou
“I love Sophie’s classes! She’s a really engaging teacher who makes everyone feel welcome. The atmosphere is supportive and she offers a safe space to explore new ways to express yourself. The classes allow me to let go, be myself and discover the movements my body can do.” Michaela Abt
“I have been taking group contemporary classes with Sophie for several months and have started to book private classes to focus on flow and quality of movement. In just one session I improved considerably in confidence and was finally able to master some moves and sequences that I had previously found challenging. Sophie strikes a perfect balance between technical correction and encouragement and is great fun to work with. I will definitely be booking more private sessions!” Laura Daniell