Welcoming our new NYDCS choreographer, Tess Letham

YDance is thrilled to announce that Scottish choreographer Tess Letham will work with the National Youth Dance Company of Scotland (NYDCS) 25/26 company. Formed by YDance in 2011, the NYDCS is the flagship contemporary dance company for Scotland’s young dancers aged 16 – 21.

"I’m thrilled to join NYDCS in this new role, it’s an incredible opportunity to work with such talented young dancers to create a brand-new piece, sharing my creative process, ideas, and passion for contemporary dance. I am committed to creating bold, thought-provoking work, and I’m looking forward to inspiring the company while learning from their energy and creativity. I’m deeply passionate about supporting the next generation of Scottish dancers and can’t wait to see what we’ll make together.”

Tess Letham

Tess is an independent dance artist working as a choreographer, performer, teacher, and curator. Her recent projects include a new commission with Scottish Dance Theatre; performing in new works with Shotput and Al Seed Productions; and creating her own productions What Ever Happened to Harmony Banks? (presented at Dance Base during the 2025 Fringe) and SPECTRAL (Hidden Door Festival), both of which received high praise from audiences and critics. Alongside this, Tess leads the dance programme as curator at Hidden Door Festival and is widely respected artist in the Scottish dance sector.

On her plans with NYDCS, Tess adds:

”I’m excited to bring my skills and experience to NYDCS — supporting the company in fresh, creative ways, nurturing its unique voice, and building on its incredible legacy as it moves in exciting new directions for the next 15 years.”

Working with Tess to create a new work will be an extremely positive experience for all young dancers taking part. As a company member, dancers will take part in creative intensive weekends with like-minded artists, pushing their technical and creative skills. Become a part of NYDCS and gain professional development skills, access career development sessions and mentoring opportunities, and take part in a UK and International tour from March to August.

Working with YDance and Tess this year is an opportunity not to be missed!