This is Us

We are thrilled to share This is Us, Protein’s dance film created with and performed by students from New Directions PRU and Protein dance artists.

Part of our Real Life, Real Dance participation programme and created over a three-week intensive creation period for young people attending an alternative provision school, the film is influenced by Protein’s Border Tales, exploring themes of multiculturalism and identity.

In November 2021, This is Us received an Honourable Mention at the Athens International Monthly Art Film Festival. 

Feedback from New Directions PRU:

“I have learnt teamwork. Working with others, trying out new things. Meeting new people and some good exercises that is really good for the body and mental health. I also learnt to respect others and their opinions. Also, the biggest thing I’ve learnt is to not listen to other people’s opinions and just be yourself.”
Year 10 student

“I cannot express how amazing this opportunity has been for our students. It has been an experience that I know they will not forget and will always talk about.”
Headteacher

“An incredible opportunity for young people, It was a chance for them to prove how important they are within the community and allowed them to use their good qualities (respect, teamwork, patience) for a positive reason. It allowed them to realise how their amazing qualities go a long way.”
Staff member 

Watch This is Us here:

A film by Luca Silvestrini’s Protein

Created with and performed by students from New Directions School:
Mohammed Ali
Yasin Islam
Brenton Moore
Precious Whittingham-Gordon
Janaina Duarte-Lloyd

And Protein’s Dance Artist:
Nathan Bartman
Miranda Mac Letten
Rachele Rapisardi

Directed by Luca Silvestrini
In collaboration with filmmaker Alice Underwood
Original music by Andy Pink
Costumes by Miranda Mac Letten and Michael Johnson

This is Us was created as part of JOIN THE DOCKS and supported by the Royal Docks Team.

Filmed at The Silver Building, The Crystal Gardens, Royal Victoria Dock Bridge and other locations in the Royal Docks, London Borough of Newham in May 2021.

Luca Silvestrini’s Protein and New Directions would like to give enormous thanks to all the participants who have been part of the creative process. Special thanks to, all the New Directions support staff, Calvin, Steve, Annette and Sabah and mentor David, as well as Alex and all the team at Join the Docks, Efahne Bissessur, Emily Gunn, Dani at House of Mass, Adam and Joel at Silver Building and Molly at East London Dance.

#ProteinDance #RealLifeRealDance