About Us

Curious Motion was founded in 2019 after the success of several creative projects in Elland, led by our Artistic Director, Sam McCormick. Sam moved to Calderdale in 2015 and has built strong relationships with residents, community groups and businesses in and around Elland and the Lower Valley. Through Sam’s conversations with local people it became clear that there was a strong desire for new and aspirational experiences to be readily available. So, she piloted several projects, with great success, and Curious Motion was created!

We exist to create meaningful high-quality artistic experiences where people connect with themselves and each other for the benefit of their health and happiness. We particularly focus on working with people of any age who:

– Have limited or no access to creative wellbeing opportunities

– Are at risk of discrimination, isolation, and/or loneliness

– Are living with one or more chronic health conditions or are at risk of declining health

– Have complex social needs that affect their wellbeing

We are advocating for a more connected and inclusive society, rooted in collective wellbeing, kindness, and joy.

A person holding a dance position is surrounded by blurred people as they dance

“The future belongs to the curious.

Those who are not afraid to try it,

explore it, poke at it,

and turn it inside out.”

Anonymous

Our Values

Artistry

Creativity is at the heart of our work. We are inspired by the unknown and love to use our imaginations.

Belonging

We embed access into our work and aim to ensure everyone feels fully respected and accepted.

Compassion

We take action to address inequalities, treating ourselves and others with kindness in recognition of our shared humanity.

Curiosity

We are always learning, and love to explore. We are passionate about process and seek to try new things.

Empathy

We listen without judgement, respecting each other’s experiences and perspectives.

Integrity

We work with honesty and dedication, ensuring we remain accountable to our community.

The Curious Motion Team

Board of Directors:

Samantha McCormickArtistic Director / Co-Founder

Sam (she/her) is a Dance Artist with 15 years of professional experience, primarily focused on facilitation, dance for health, and positive social change.

Susan BurnsDirector / Co-Founder

Susan (she/her) is a freelance creative with a background in theatre and literature, with an incredible track record in organising participatory projects in communities.

Emily TuckerDirector

Emily (she/her) is an arts management professional with over 10 years of experience working across venues and festivals. Her background is in dance but she has a passion and interest in all art forms.

Theo ClinkardDirector

Theo (he/him) is an artist whose current practice spans choreography, theatre design and performing. He founded his own company in 2012 and has built an international reputation for his contemporary work across a wide variety of settings.

Artists & Collaborators:

Matt LackfordDance Artist & Digital Support

Matt (he/him) has been working professionally in dance for ten years, as a facilitator, performer, and choreographer. He has a keen interest in floor work and works with people of many ages and levels of experience.

Isla HurstIntern and Dance Artist

Isla (she/her) is a dance artist who loves to explore activism and social justice in her work. She has recently graduated from the Northern School of Contemporary Dance and joined Curious Motion in July 2021 as our first intern!

Jess WoodheadDance/Drama Artist

Jess (she/her) has a background in dance and drama and has accumulated a wealth of experience in the creative industry – working in a variety of different settings from community arts organisations to educational organisations with lots in between!