The Power of Different at the Reaffirmation Ceremony 2025
As part of Richmond’s twinning celebrations, Combination Dance presented an extract of The Power of Different an upcoming piece celebrating neurodiversity. The event brought together community members and arts enthusiasts to celebrate inclusion, diversity, and the patterns that connect us all.
The Concept
On June 8 2025, York House opened the celebrations with Combination Dance’s powerful dance preview. This piece explores neurodivergence and invisible disabilities and draws inspiration from Dr. Gail Saltz’s bestselling book, The Power of Different and integrates research by Dr. Jessica Eccles, creating a rich tapestry of movement and storytelling that highlights the beauty and complexity of being different. TODDCS was there to capture the performance.
The Execution
1. The Performance
The preview showcased a vibrant excerpt performed by the talented dancers of Combination Dance, Richmond’s leading dance organisation. Choreographed by Matt Walker, Chloe Mead, and Ombrascura Dance, the piece wove together intricate movement patterns to convey the emotions and experiences of neurodivergent individuals.
Dancers:
Andrew Lyle-Pinnock
Angus Phillips-Higham
Jaide Almeida
Jamie Mason
Kerri De Aguiar
Leigh Shaked
Luke Cartwright
Nea McLean
Ruby Hirst
Tilly Woodward
2. Filming and Visual Storytelling
As part of the event, TODDCS captured the energy and emotion of the performance through dynamic videography. The short film, edited by Luke Toddfrey, highlights the dancers’ artistry, the vibrant choreography, and the audience’s palpable connection to the themes presented on stage. Jules Renahan Photography documented the event with some amazing photographs.
3. Community Engagement
The event was designed to be more than just a performance. It was a celebration of community and difference, amplified through interactive post-show discussions. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees expressing appreciation for the piece’s thought-provoking themes and the talent of the performers.
Looking Ahead
This November, The Power of Different will debut in full at The National Archives, offering audiences another opportunity to experience this transformative work. Leading up to the premiere, there will be additional engagements, including a flash mob in September to further raise awareness about the themes of neurodiversity and inclusion. Follow Combination Dance to find out more.
The Impact
This event showcased the power of dance as a tool for social change, bringing visibility to neurodiversity and invisible disabilities. By celebrating difference, The Power of Different fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation for the unique strengths that make individuals and communities thrive. The visuals captured by TODDCS and the performances of Combination Dance will continue to amplify the reach and message of this project, ensuring its impact resonates far beyond Richmond.
