Rickae Hewitt-Martin

Rickae joined the Nottingham CAT Programme in 2014 and during that time worked with artists such as, Gary Clarke, Theo Clinkard and Alleyne Dance. She went on to train full time at Northern School of Contemporary Dance, before embarking on a freelance career as a performer, teacher and Dance Movement Psychotherapist.

When were you on the CAT programme?

2014-2017

Where did you go after CAT – what has been your career trajectory?

After completing the CAT programme, I trained professionally at the Northern School of Contemporary Dance for four years. I then worked as a freelance dance artist, performing nationally and internationally with Yewande103, a professional dance company, on a project basis, and I continue to perform with them today. I also returned to the CAT scheme for two years as a supporting artist for students and taught dance in both secondary and primary schools, including inclusive dance. During this time, I pursued my Master’s in Dance Movement Psychotherapy (DMP) for two years. I now work as a freelance DMP across the Midlands and have founded my own dance company, Vehdance and Movement, in Derby, where I offer dance classes for young people and children. I’ve also been involved in various community projects.

We are celebrating 20 years of the National CAT Programme, what difference do you think the scheme has made to the UK dance landscape?

The CAT Programme has made a significant impact by providing young dancers from diverse backgrounds with access to professional-level training. This has not only nurtured talent but also created pathways for students to progress into higher education and professional careers.

The CAT Programme has played a crucial role in diversifying the dance sector, ensuring that more students from varied backgrounds can pursue careers in dance/ the arts. Equipping young dancers with the skills, discipline, and artistic exposure needed to succeed.

The programme’s emphasis on both technical and creative development has produced well-rounded dancers, prepared for the industry and its demands. Students are trained not only in performance but also encouraged to explore choreography, dance-making, and the cultural impact of dance.

Furthermore, the programme fosters transferable skills such as resilience, time management, and collaboration, which are valuable everyday life skills.

If you received a bursary to cover all/or part of your fees when attending the CAT, what impact did the financial support have on you and your circumstances and your ability to dance?

Receiving a full grant to cover the fees for the CAT Programme had a profound impact on both my training and my circumstances. It removed the financial barriers that might have otherwise prevented me from accessing such a high level of dance education and support. This bursary allowed me to focus entirely on my development as a dancer, without the added stress of financial concerns.

Photo Credit: Elly Welford