*About Me
I am an inclusive dance artist, movement facilitator, and creator of multi-sensory
dance theatre performances for young people with additional needs based in Bray, Co. Wicklow.
At the heart of my practice is a commitment to inclusivity, driven by my vision of making dance
accessible and fostering equal access to the arts for everyone. I seek to break down
barriers with my work, creating engaging, immersive experiences that celebrate the
unique nature and perspectives of every participant.
My projects and performances connect with people of all ages, always offering a
welcoming space for expression, exploration and an invitation to experience movement,
sound, and sensation in ways that are personal and transformative, whether in
schools, theatres, or community settings.
With over 15 years of experience performing, collaborating, and directing across
professional and community contexts, my practice is informed by a diverse
background in dance and movement. I have studied at the London Contemporary
Dance School and Northbrook Metropolitan College, Freestyle Yoga Project, UK and
Tattvaa Yoga Shala, India.
I create work that is physically rich and deeply inclusive and I strive to create a space
where everyone, regardless of ability, is free to explore, express, and connect.
Work
Making Waves
An immersive Dance Theatre Show for children and young people with mild to complex needs aged 8-13yrs.
Voices
International collaboration
Voices is an integrated dance performance celebrating inclusivity, individuality and identity. Choreographed by Jess Rowell (Ireland) and Hayley Earlam (Scotland) featuring a main cast of performers with and without disabilities (Anderson de Souza (Ireland/Brazil), Brian McSweeney (Ireland) and Alessandro Zangrando (Italy/Ireland). More info here
Create Dance & Friends
Curated by Jess Rowell
A day of dance, inclusion, presentation & celebration curated by Jess Rowell as part of her 2022 dance residency at Draíocht. Over 50 dancers and facilitators came together for a joyous day of dance and connection in June 2022. Members from Create Dance, Draíocht, Traces Dance Ensemble, Brothers of Charity, Waterford & Anam Creative Arts Hub.
Link to film here
Ripples
An inclusive dance film presenting movement as an expression of inclusivity and individuality. Featuring members of Create Dance, Draíocht with Jess Rowell & Brian McSweeney
Link to film here
Between Us There Is...
A dance film celebrating the 13-year movement relationship between Jess Rowell and Brian McSweeney a dancer with Down syndrome
Link to film here