Dance specialist Sara Wookey is the creative force behind a new, post-work community dance class in the Orangery at Carrow House, Norwich, starting today. The American British citizen – and former professional contemporary dancer – explains more
Who are you and what do you do?
I am Sara Wookey, a dance scholar and former professional contemporary dancer who teaches dance for communities in the UK, United States, EU and Southeast Asia.
Where are you from originally?
I am originally from the US. I moved to London to work with Tate Modern and their performance and research departments and taught at the Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance. More recently I have been teaching community dance classes in the Cambridgeshire area. I recently moved to Norwich.
What do you love about living and working in the county – and Carrow House in particular?
As I am new to the county, I can say that I felt, right away, a warm and inviting vibe in Norwich. A place where people are committed to and believe in – there is a lot going on here while still feeling connected in a way that cannot be felt in bigger cities. I enjoy the community of Carrow House where social enterprises and artists work alongside each other and share knowledge and experience. I also like its location – as it serves an area less served by health and wellness activities such as dance.
What has led to you starting a community dance class in the Orangery at Carrow House?
I love bringing dance to people and experiencing the collective joy it offers. Dance is different to other forms of practice in the health and wellbeing sector in that it is group focused – a place where we can see each other, enjoy sharing space and even laugh together. My interest is in how dancing together can bring a sense of acceptance (we are whole as we are) connection and belonging; joyful and fun – all things we need a bit more of in the world today.
What do you love about dance?
That it is, innately, a social practice. A way of being together that is collaborative and welcoming.
When does it take place? What can people expect on the day?
It takes place on Tuesdays 5.30-6.30pm in the Orangery (a space where the light of the season will be enjoyable to witness and as a setting for the class and as we change seasons) starting 12th August. You can expect an open, enthusiastic and focused space to try out dancing in the light of the end of the workday where you can unwind, find expression through movement and get a good but gentle workout. The movements will be led, easy to follow and repetitive so you do not have to work too hard mentally – a space to get out of the head, into the body and go away energised, inspired and lighter. You may even find yourself smiling and laughing at the end.
Are you planning anything similar after the summer?
The classes run for 12-weeks. If there is enough take up/interest I would be keen to continue the series into the winter months. Come out, have a try! Oh, and do wear some trainers if you like support and to add a spring in your step!
Sara Wookey‘s Golden Light Community Contemporary Dance Class starts in the Orangery at Carrow House, King Street, Norwich on Tuesday evenings, 5.30-6.30pm, staring August 12th, 2025. People can drop in for one class or sign up for the whole series and there are a limited edition of 2-for-1 (bring a friend!) offers. Visit Eventbrite. Sara is a member of Carrow House, running a business called Wookey Works – supporting creatives, cultural organisations and the health and wellbeing sector in Norwich.
Featured image of Sara Wookey by Camilla Greenwell
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