About Us

Soul enriching creative experiences founded on empathy and joy.

Our work is inclusive and innovative, reflecting the stories and experiences of people across Calderdale, West Yorkshire.

We were founded by local professional dance artist Sam McCormick in 2019. Sam started Welland, which is now an ongoing wellbeing programme in Elland, and has provided a range of other innovative dance and wellbeing opportunities in the area. The success of these projects encouraged her to develop her ideas further, and Curious Motion was born!

We provide a range of creative projects and programmes, from weekly dance classes to longer term artistic projects, all of which are centred around the communities in which we serve.

Two people - one person has their back to the camera and the Curious Motion logo can be seen on their t-shirt. In the background is another person facing the camera, waving and smiling.

“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, stay open to possibilities, and love to use our imagination.

Compassion

We work with sensitivity, respect, and love, creating a supportive space where people feel free to be themselves.

Curiosity

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

Empathy

We believe in care & consideration for others, without judgement. We share and listen, providing a space to be seen and heard.

Inclusion

Everyone is welcome here. We actively celebrate difference, alongside that which unites us, and strive for a more inclusive world.

Integrity

We work with honesty and dedication, striving to ensure we make real positive change for individuals and communities.

The Curious Motion Team

Samantha McCormick
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.
Emily Tucker
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.
Susan Burns
Susan BurnsDirector / Producer / 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.
Matt Lackford
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 Hurst
Isla HurstIntern
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 Woodhead
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!