Dance project to tell rugby league’s story at Wembley

The inspiring history of rugby league will be represented via the medium of dance, ahead of the Challenge Cup final at Wembley in August.

Young people between the ages of 11 and 22 will be performing the piece, which has been choreographed by Sharon Watson, the artistic director of Phoenix Dance Theatre.

The date of the final, August 29, marks 120 years since the foundation of the Northern Union, which eventually became the Rugby Football League, the George Hotel, Huddersfield, in 1895.

The project is funded by the Arts Council in association with Rugby League Cares, the sport’s charitable arm.

Rugby League Cares General Manager Chris Rostron said: “I would like to thank the Arts Council England, Phoenix Dance Theatre, Sarah Elston and all of the participating clubs, Foundations and Join the Momentum dancers for their support this year.

“It is a marvellous opportunity for youngsters from our communities to have the opportunity to work with Sharon Watson, perform at Wembley Stadium and be part of the sport’s 120-year celebrations at the Ladbrokes Challenge Cup final.

“Everyone is working so hard to put on a show that will do justice to this very special occasion for the sport.

“It is fitting that the dancers, along with the rest of the team, have been able to link up with the Founders Walk and take part in one of the other major activities organised in celebration of the birth of the sport.

“I’m sure that rugby league’s 120th birthday will be a day to remember for the dancers, their families, the dance practitioners and the thousands of fans at Wembley on the day.”

Sharon Watson, artistic director of Phoenix Dance Theatre, added: “It is a pleasure to mark this significant event for Rugby League by creating new choreography for such a large number of young people.

“Phoenix see the value in keeping history alive and continue to make connections with our own history through our extensive repertoire. From these experiences we know dance is the perfect tool in which to celebrate and honour the past.

“One hundred and twenty years of Rugby League is an achievement and a landmark; through dance we are excited to capture and share this incredible journey with thousands of fans at Wembley Stadium.

“Five-hundred-and-fifty young performers will energise the pitch and demonstrate that the spirit in which the Rugby League was founded is still very much alive. It’s going to be an event not to be missed.”