With and Without

Three years on from the first lockdown in the UK, With and Without is a dance film and series of short TikToks, created by SEND students at Gateshead College in response to their reflections of COVID-19.

Conversations were framed around what it means to be with or without in the context of COVID-19 - an opportunity for newness, alongside a sense of loss.

New hobbies.

Zoom.

Gaming.

Quizzes.

Activity packs.

Board games.

TikTok.

2 metres.

Covid tests.

Masks.

Mental health.

Prom.

Theatre.

No singing.

No touch.

Hugs.

These memories were recalled through exercises in drawing, writing and dancing, which were then reconsidered in the form of film.

Themes that arose included touch, consent and listening.

Devisers + Performers: Students at Gateshead College;

Geordie, Maria, Bailey, Lucy, Dre, Caris, Shanice, Macey, Connor, Jasmine, Leona, Victoria, Kirsty

Facilitator + Director: Lizzie Klotz

Assistant Director: Hannah

Camera + Editor: Saya Rose Naruse

5 minutes and 5 x up to 1 minute TikToks, 2023

With and Without was commissioned by Gateshead Council as part of their Lockdown Lives programme, with many thanks to Josie Lucas, Donna Lynch, Kerry Milburn and Lisa Miller from Gateshead College.