Jenna Corker

Jenna is a contemporary dance artist interested in the performance of dance and all the wonders that come from making and sharing dance with others. Jenna has been choreographing, teaching and supporting dance in Scotland for the past three years. She values inclusivity and knowing everyone has the chance to find joy from dance. Jenna also works part-time in the third sector and has been coordinating outdoor activities linked to walking.

Since graduating in 2019 Jenna’s choreographic work has been programmed by Brighton Fringe, Surge, Visual Arts Scotland, Sound Festival Aberdeen and The Work Room, Dance North Scotland, Citymoves Dance and Tramway as part of the Moving Out programme. Jenna was part of the Dancer’s Emerging Bursary scheme in 2019, mentored by Angus Balbernie. In 2021/22 Jenna received a #LoveDanceScotland bursary to support her solo practice. The bursary allowed her to collaborate with musician Carla Sayer. She is also a member of Vaiven Dance Collective and regularly collaborates with dancers Alexandra Tsiapi, Francesca Till and Carmen Berbel.

Artist statement:

I learn through dance and the many worlds that live in movement. The performance surprises me as it teaches me something new with an inner language.

I am interested in how movement can inhabitant and transform spaces and how witnessing and sharing dance helps us to connect with our inner and outer environments. I often work with natural landscapes and open spaces where people collect and travel through, taking inspiration from the everyday exchanges and journeys made. Asking what do these spaces ask of our bodies and behaviours? A recurring force and influence, I am often drawn to the sea, sometimes adding an element of surrealism to my work. I enjoy moving with natural materials and use storytelling and the voice to help structure and shape my work.

As well as making dance, I am interested in how choreography can help us to develop, evolve and imagine another way. Using my imagination helps me to dream. It gives me the chance to imagine other possibilities.