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An insight into Christopher Wheeldon’s background and journey from dancer to choreographer. We hear why he chose the story of ‘Alice In Wonderland’, for his full length story ballet and also why he wanted to work with composer Joby Talbot and designer Bob Crowley. He elaborates on Talbot’s ability to create texture and fantasy in his music which gave Wheeldon the confidence to aspire to such a production. Similarly he comments on the importance of Crowley’s experience, vision and imagination. Wheeldon describes aspects of his working process such as developing new material from the catalogue of steps which is classical ballet. He describes the challenge of creating a full length work and the need to reflect and evaluate on the work in progress.

This clip could be used to present students with an insight into the role of a choreographer, the development of a full length ballet production and the importance of collaboration with other theatre professionals. Following the clip, students could be divided into groups and be provided with a short piece of music, of various styles. Students could listen to the music and consider the ‘story’ behind this music. They could write down their interpretation of the story, and then work together to choreograph a dance piece which complements the story-telling to an audience. After each group performance, the rest of the students could be asked to describe their understanding of the story, based on the music and dance combination.