Artists

Tricia first discovered RJC Dance when she was just 12 years old and her mum’s friend took her to an RJC Dance workshop at the Saltaire Day of Dance. Tricia later trained in dance at university and then, in 2018, when the opportunity arose to work with RJC Dance, she jumped at the chance.

Since then, Tricia has taught several groups at RJC Dance, and now teaches 6-8 year olds in Shahck Out Kids. She loves working with this age group because they are full of confidence, energy, enthusiasm and brilliant ideas. Each term Tricia explores a new style of dance with the children, from Hip-Hop to Soca dance, Contemporary to Musical Theatre and more. Everyone looks forward to the end of term sharing, where the children can show their families all that they have learnt.

When Tricia isn’t at RJC Dance, she’s a Dance Producer. She recently ran her own festival – BRAVE (Black Roots and Voices Expressed) – a day of workshops in art forms that have Black origins, covering everything from Tap to Rap and Steel Pan. Tricia teaches dance in local schools, and to those with learning disabilities across West Yorkshire. She also continues to perform, most recently in Balbir Singh Dance Company’s production, ‘Cricket’.

Follow Tricia on Instagram or check out her website.

Shahada Nantaba Sekajja ( She / they ) is a non-binary movement artist. They are passionate in empowering young people through the use of movement and mindful practices.

Shahada Trained at Phoenix dance Theatre Saturday School, RJC Dance Youth Provision, Wakefield College and Northern School of Contemporary Dance ( NSCD ). After Graduating with a 1st class BA honors in 2021 at NSCD, Shahada has worked as a Freelance Dance Artist for RJC Dance and Phoenix Dance Education.

Shahada has toured as a performing dance artist with Whispered Tales in their installation pieces ‘Distant Drums’ which was choreographed by one of Phoenix DanceTheatre’s Founding members Donald Edwards and ‘Refuge Island’ choreographed by Lisa Simpson. Shahada also worked as a dance artist on Yewande 103' s Dance film called “ Fountain' ' which toured in picture house cinemas as well as live performances in Germany for the Foramen Theatre Festival 2022.

Shahada is passionate about facilitating inclusive safe spaces for marginalised communities to explore and express themselves through movement.

Nillanthie started at RJC Dance Youth Provision in 2002 at the age of 13. He then went on to study at the Northern School of Contemporary Dance where he initially completed a one year Foundation course before going on to do a 3 year BPA Honours degree course, graduating with a smile and a pirouette in summer 2011.

Nillanthie returned to his old stomping ground at RJC Dance, this time as a Dance tutor. He teaches the RJC Dance Youth Provision various dance styles, which are showcased at numerous events throughout the year including FRESH, the NSCD Community Dance Platforms, Leeds West Indian Carnival and the annual RJC Dance Christmas Showcase.

I have been working as a designer and visual artist with RJC Dance since 2001. Together with a talented team, we have created nearly 20 different troupes which performed nationally and internationally.

The themes have included environmental, political and physical/ mental wellbeing, with our focus being on using sustainable and recycled materials.

As the lead designer I work closely with the choreographer to create costumes which are light enough for dance, enhance movement, use sustainable materials and will look effective on carnival day and future performances.

I love the creativity of working with RJC Dance - every year is exciting and different. Last year we did Natro-Beat, which was 95% recycled and natural materials. It won Troupe of the Year which was a fantastic way to celebrate 30 years of RJC Dance. This year the theme is Carnavale Azul... watch this space!

Follow Rhian on Instagram or discover her website.

I work with a group of amazing young people at RJC Youth Theatre. We work together to devise shows, based on the issues and themes the young people want to explore, whilst also developing performance skills and building confidence.

I love creating theatre with Young People and channelling their voices and creativity into their performances. I love the way devised theatre lets them think outside the box and come up with different ideas for how to share their creativity and views.

When I am not at RJC, I am at Leeds Playhouse where I work as the Learning & Skills Facilitator, delivering on our Youth Theatre as well as working with schools across the city to integrate drama into their curriculums.

Follow Licie on Twitter/X.