There’s nothing like the excitement of working on large scale collaborative productions

Infinitely passionate about theatre, dance and live performance arts, I have worked across performance productions, participation and immersive experiences - leading on fundraising, planning, strategic development and delivery with such names as Hofesh Schechter Dance Company, One Dance UK, V&A, East London Dance, Punchdrunk, Newham Council, Newham Unlocked, Uchenna Dance, Chisenhale Dance, ChinaPlate Limited, Historic Royal Palace, Lift Festival, English National Ballet and many more.

I am a Creative Associate for Jeanafer Jean Charles and currently a guest lecture at BIMMS University, Suffolk University and London College of Fashion. Previously, I have lectured at London Contemporary Dance School, Bedfordshire University and East London University.

“Gemma has a wealth of knowledge in executive producing, project management and leading participation, artists & organisation to create epic performances and immersive experiences with attention to detail like no other… As well as mentoring & coaching artists, producers & facilitators, she has helped lead and bring the creativity, vision, and ambition of our work to life!”

East Wall

East Wall was a long-term talent development project, which culminated in a large-scale spectacle of dance and live music at the Tower of London as part of LIFT 2018.

Leading partners Hofesh Shechter Company and East London Dance, later joining forces with Historic Royal Palaces and LIFT, brought together up and coming choreographers from East London, and a large cast of dancers, musicians and community participants from Tower Hamlets and surrounding boroughs to celebrate East London’s rich cultural heritage.

Newham Unlocked

Under Jeanafer Jean Charles’ vision as Artistic Director, I worked as a Creative Associate for events across Newham Unlocked Festival in 2021, celebrating the theme of Unity through a series of free events, performances, and workshops; curated and produced in partnership with local arts organisations.

Plaistow and Green Street was a month-long celebration of unity and community with two landmark events on the weekend of October 16 and 17.

The weekend programme included a specially commissioned Mass Movement parade of 60 dancers from six community groups accompanied by a live band and a fun-packed programme on the outdoor stage in Plaistow Park with performances by singers, poets, dancers, DJ’s and more.

The powerful dance parade in the centre of Queen’s Market was inspired by Green Street as a celebration of the local community.

Chisenhale Summer of Art

Chisenhale Dance Space, Chisenhale Gallery and Chisenhale Studios collaborate and deliver an annual free creative programme of hands-on activities, workshops and classes for the local community in the Chisenhale Learn + Play + Create outdoor playground culminating in a festival of arts for all.

Supported by Action for Bow.

Other Projects:

  • I've had the honour to work with Gemma in various ways including co-facilitator & as a current advisory board member. She has a distinct way of enabling you to reach your destination confidently, while supporting you to expand, grow & do the necessary work on your mindset that frees you from blockages that are holding you back. She ensures you are successful with the things you need to achieve and get done on a practical and energetic level. The combination of the two is priceless.

    Vicki Igbokwe, CEO & Artistic Director, Uchenna Dance

  • Gemma, I have known for over a decade and is a clear example of the importance of the people working diligently leading programmes and working behind the scenes that makes the work happen, having participated in two programmes she has led, she has opened my eyes up to how to boundary set, be clear on our values and do the work that really moves you.

    Niquelle La Touche, The Fi.ELD & Producers House Alumni