Kerry Youth Dance Theatre was established by Catherine Young in 2008 after engaging with youths in Kenmare on a number of on-going dance workshops and research explorations during her time as Dancer in Residence. In collaboration with composer Ryan Langley, Catherine choreographed the contemporary dance work “Body Count” with the group, which premiered at Siamsa Tire Tralee in May 2008. The ensemble grew from strength touring nationally and has received Arts Council funding to research and develop new work since 2009. In 2010 KYDT was nominated for the Kerry Arts & Culture award for its work and contributions to Arts, Culture and Community in Kerry.
KYTD, Kerry’s first contemporary dance company for young people (aged 14-23), is a creative and artistic voice for young people, using movement and dance as their primary form of expression. The mission of KYDT is to develop and create new dance works for performance that showcase themes and ideas important to youths, showing their world-view of things. The company embraces all cultures and backgrounds and is committed to making high quality dance works that have the power to transform both those who engage in creative process as well as those that witness the performances. The creative process highly encourages the youths to engage fully in the creation and formation of the dances. Catherine is committed to training the company members in contemporary dance, yoga/meditation as well as in general performance technique. Dancers that continue their training with KYDT are then selected to apprentice with Catherine’s professional dance company.