EVER dreamed of swimming through the water like a mermaid? Or dancing to the infectious rhythms of Bollywood? Now’s your chance!
This summer there is the opportunity to take part in an exciting community performance at the internationally renowned Ilkley Lido as part of the Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture celebrations.
The project is a collaboration between Zoobin Surty Company and Yorkshire Life Aquatic.
Zoobin Surty (Image: Zoobin Surty Company website)
A spokesperson for Yorkshire Life Aquatic urged Ilkley residents to sign up and be part this Hollywood Bollywood fusion at Ilkley Lido as either a swimmer or a dancer.
“We are looking for people to join our community cast of synchronised swimmers and Bollywood dancers! (no experience needed),” they said.
“Over 10 weeks you can learn either a swimming or dance routine which will culminate in a joint performance at Ilkley Lido on July 12.
“Pool sessions at the lido will be fun and you are very welcome to have a go before you decide if you want to be part of the performance on July 12. You will be performing with more experienced swimmers joining from Bramley Mermaids Club usually based at Bramley Baths.
“Rehearsals will run between May and July up to the performance on July 12 and is part of Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture celebrations. Don’t miss your chance to join a diverse group of community performers and create unforgettable memories!
“If you are 16 or over you can join our community cast as a synchronised swimmer or Bollywood Dancer.”
Rehearsals will take place at Ilkley Lido on Thursdays from 7.30pm to 8.30pm from from May 22 to July 10 (these sessions are free). The final performance is on July 12 at 6pm at Ilkley Lido
Find out more about what is involved and sign up to pool sessions at Ilkley Lido visit https://www.yorkshirelifeaquatic.co.uk/2025/03/21/hollywood-meets-bollywood-sign-up-to-take-part-in-free-pool-sessions-at-ilkley-lido/
Zoobin Surty is an accomplished artist and choreographer with a broad and comprehensive training in Indian Classical dance forms and contemporary dance. He works extensively with communities across Yorkshire and internationally.
Yorkshire Life Aquatic creates choreography in water and on land inspired by vintage synchronised swimming shows – think Busby Berkeley and Esther Williams.
This project has been made possible by the Creative Communities Fund thanks to the Pears Foundation, Bradford 2025 City of Culture and Give Bradford #GiveLoveBradford.
For further information contact Lucy and Zoe at: hello@yorkshirelifeaquatic.co.uk
