Author Archives: Karen

Jo has been working as an actor for around 15 years and prior to this, trained in dance throughout her childhood. She joined Bicycle Ballet in 2018 and has performed in both Blazing Saddles and Strictly Cycling. I’ve learnt and … Continue reading →

Before The Bicycle Ballet & KP Projects, Artistic Director Karen Poley produced over 100 outdoor arts events & festivals, around 30 commissions of new work of all scales by UK & international companies including WILDWORKS, Transe Express, Groupe F, The … Continue reading →

The Bicycle Ballet Co is looking for physical performers / dancers with a keen interest in, or experience of, improvisation and riding bicycles.  We’re looking to build our pool of performers for our outdoor show, Strictly Cycling, around the UK. … Continue reading →

In the late 19th century, cycling was at the forefront of movements for women’s equality.  Women embraced the independence & the freedom of cycling &, despite public & media consternation, shed voluminous dresses & up to seven pounds of underwear.  … Continue reading →

Blazing Saddles is a unique outdoor performance, telling the little known story of the moment bicycles first became widely available & women transformed their clothing to be able to ride.  It links into issues around women & cycling today, seeking … Continue reading →

We’re very excited to be developing a new heritage project researching women & cycling, linking a centenary of women’s suffrage & emancipation with environmental & health policy narratives encouraging women & girls to ride. More information soon…

A night-time version of Strictly Cycling, with yellow cycling capes glowing like belisha beacons, wheels, fingers & toes ablaze.  An entertaining street show, combined with a light-hearted, road safety, message to ‘light up & be seen on bikes after dark. … Continue reading →

The Bicycle Ballet Co Artistic Director outlines some of the ideas behind The Cilia Dance, the day before the pilot project in Brighton takes place A bit more detail on some of those ideas: Cilia are microscopic, hair-like structures on … Continue reading →

Interview with Mark Carter on BBC Radio Sussex, Saturday 25 September, 9.10am

Saturday 25 September from 3pm at St Peter’s Church & through Valley Gardens 15 years after the first Bicycle Ballet performance on Brighton seafront, we’re back to celebrate Car Free Day again on Saturday 25 September, with a pilot performance … Continue reading →