New Theatre Royal in Portsmouth is delighted to announce that renowned tap dancer and Got to Dance semi-finalist Lee Payne is joining their Creative Lab to become the newest Associate Artist.
Commenting on becoming part of the theatre’s innovative new programme, Lee says: “This is a fantastic opportunity that allows me to develop my creative ideas and bring them to the foreground with the support of the Creative Producer. It also enables me to pass on my own skills and experiences to other associates who are perhaps just starting out in the industry.”
Based in Sussex, Lee first started dancing when he was four years old and went on to train in dance, acting and stunts, studying at Millennium Performing Arts College. His career has seen him perform with the likes of Gabrielle, Enrique Iglesias and the Pussycat Dolls. His extensive experience in musicals theatre has seen Lee perform in Riverdance for 11 years, Magic of the Dance and Singing in the Rain at the National Theatre in Leeds. More recently he has been touring with the street dance troupe Diversity and performed with them at the VE Day celebrations on BBC1 this month.
When he’s not performing Lee runs Bruckfeet Productions, a company that supports creative dancing talent. From teaching at dance studios around the world and choreographing tours to collaborating with other artists, the production company has made a huge cultural contribution to the art of tap dancing.
“I love collaborating on all different genres of art whether it is acting, dancing or singing to create something completely new,” comments Lee. “New Theatre Royal is at the forefront of this, helping new up-and-coming acts to collaborate and push the boundaries of art”
Laura Doye, Creative Producer at New Theatre Royal, comments: “It is wonderful to have Lee involved at New Theatre Royal. He is a highly talented and well-known performer who can help pass his extensive performing experiences on to our emerging local talent. Lee is a very welcome addition to our Lab Associates; his enthusiasm, talent and passion is both infectious and inspiring.”
For more information on New Theatre Royal’s Creative Lab programme, please contact Laura Doye on [email protected] and visit The Creative Lab webpage.