Chameleon Youth – Lila’s story.
2 July 2025As we get ready for this year’s Chameleon Youth audition on Sunday 13 July, Lila looks back on her youth dance journey and shares how the experience has helped her build transferable skills that she’ll carry into her future studies in medicine.
1) Hi Lila, how old are you and where are you from?
Hi! I’m 18 years old and I’m from Manchester.
2) What made you want to be in Chameleon Youth?
I wanted a new challenge and to develop my dance technique and repertoire beyond what I had done previously. Doing a workshop with Company Chameleon at my school, Chorlton High School, made me look into auditioning and I’m so glad that I did.
3) What do you enjoy most about Chameleon Youth?
I most enjoy how inspiring the atmosphere is. Being taught by Company Dancers who are so talented and supportive, as well as being around amazing young dancers with similar drive and enthusiasm is such a privilege to be a part of
4) Could you describe a highlight from your time as a member of Chameleon Youth?
I loved having the opportunity to learn from Gemma Nixon, creating a curtain raiser performance for New Moment Collective’s performance of Les Noces which was performed in London
5) What are you off to do next?
I’m off to university to study medicine.
6) Why should any budding young dancers come along to the July audition for Chameleon Youth 2025-26?
Whether you’re interested in going onto study dance or not, it’s an amazing opportunity to develop transferable skills, which are important in any career. You have nothing to lose, but a lot to gain!
Thanks for sharing your story Lila.
Love dance, choose dance, Chameleon Youth is recruiting!
If you’re age 11 to 21, and like Lila, would like to make dance your craft by connecting and training with one of the UK’s leading dance companies, then join us at the Chameleon Youth 2025/26 audition on Sunday 13 July 2025.
What we offer you.
As a young dance artist in Chameleon Youth, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Take part in a high-quality youth dance programme taught by professional dance artists at the peak of their careers.
- Perform across the year at theatres, festivals and outdoor events.
- Be part of a thriving dance hub, where you can connect with the professional dance scene.
- Belong to a community of dancers, which celebrates learning and exchange between artists from different generations
Interested?
Book your place here.
Date: Sunday 13 July 2025
Times: 10am-1pm (Juniors, age 11-16) & 2-5pm (Seniors, 16-21).
Venue: Company Chameleon, Barrass Street, Manchester, M11 1PU
The annual Audition is free to attend.
Audition applications close at midnight on Friday 11 July.
Chameleon Youth training
If you’re auditioning for Chameleon Youth it’s important that you’re available for our weekly classes, which take place at our dance studio in Openshaw, Manchester.
Chameleon Juniors (ages 11 – 16) train on Monday evenings, 6.30-8.30pm and Chameleon Youth Seniors (ages 16 – 21) train on Tuesday evenings, 6.30-8.30pm.
Chameleon Youth annual fees
Demonstrating Chameleon’s ongoing investment and commitment to supporting young dancers in training, Chameleon Youth costs are heavily subsidised by the company. The 2025/26 fees are £100 total for the year (£30 per term with a £10 registration fee).
Further info
If you have any questions or further queries, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Sam – sam@companychameleon.com | 0161 223 6280.
Taster Workshops for schools, colleges and dance groups
Interested in hosting a Chameleon Youth taster workshop? Throughout the month of June we’re offering FREE taster workshops to schools, colleges and dance groups based in Greater Manchester. To book and to find out more contact Erin – erin@companychameleon.com | 0161 223 6280
Photography: Joel Chester Fildes (portrait and performance photography) | Dani Bowers (outside photography) for One Dance UK